First Responders Receive Congressional Records

By Jennifer L. Warren

WAPPINGERS FALLS – Pay Ryan has delivered several poignant speeches on the floor of the United States House of Representatives during his tenure as a Congressman; however, he was quick to cite a recent story he unraveled- in particular- that carried special, profound meaning, along with unwavering pride.

Ryan, speaking at the S.W. Johnson Engine Company in Wappingers Falls Thursday morning at a ceremony honoring the heroic first responders and their efforts at the November 2, 2023 gas explosion catastrophe in Wappingers Falls that left 15 people injured, some critically, vividly recalled the day he delivered words in front of other political dignitaries praising all of the first responders involved. Last week, Ryan had the opportunity to thank these heroes in person, showing his deep gratitude, while presenting them with Congressional Records.

“Today, we are recognizing people who don’t often-ever want that recognition, but who do incredibly important things, such as saving lives, in our communities,” said Ryan to a packed room of recipients and guests, who he also reminded about the sad state of affairs plaguing this country. “Anything I can do to shed light onto the heroic things being done in our community and communities around the country, I want to do; we desperately, desperately need that right now.”

That need ran deep, as the events of November 2, 2023 will remain in the minds and hearts of all those impacted. During a “routine maintenance” procedure conducted by Central Hudson Gas & Electric, a gas line ruptured that day, producing an explosion, fire and the collapse of a building with multiple apartments. Despite the devastation of this unfortunate series of events, blessings emerged in the form of courageous first responders, doing what they excel at: saving lives.

Two of the first to be presented with Commendations were Wappingers Falls Police Sgt., Devin Ludwig and Officer, Daniel Corchado, the initial responders to the ravaged home, who immediately soared into life-saving, selfless actions, carrying trapped victims in burning rubble to safety. Following their recognitions were several others, representing an assortment of area agencies.

“That day, as all calls, meant a lot to me as a volunteer of five years,” recalled Wappingers Falls firefighter, Raquan White, who was also one of the first to arrive on the scene, helping to extract a worker from harm’s way. “I love to help during all calls, but this one was particularly tough; it is something very hard to train for.” White added, “Today, having Representative Ryan again recognize us, means so much to all of us.”

In addition to Congressman Ryan, also on hand to offer her appreciation to the first responders was Dutchess County Executive, Sue Serino.

“This one hit close to home, as I had just been in that very area,” Serino pointed out, as she looked at the first responders on hand. “My heart goes out to you guys and what you had to face that day and every day; thank you so very much for what you do.”

First responders from multiple agencies, including; the Wappingers Falls and East Fishkill Police Departments, S.W. Johnson Engine Company 2 and Hughsonville Fire Departments, State Police, and American Red Cross, among many others were formally recognized for their valiant, unforgettable efforts on November 2, 2023. Loud claps, filled with gratitude resonated each time a name or agency was mentioned. It was a reminder of how the indelible lifesaving efforts they made that day will not ever be forgotten.

“Those of you wearing uniforms are always the last who want recognition,” said Ryan. “It’s what makes events- like this one today- even more special.”