2009 Heroism Grand Prize Recipient: Joseph Martinelli

Firehouse.com Editor Peter Matthews talks with Chicago Firefighter Joseph Martinelli about his actions that led him to become the grand prize recipient for the 2009 Firehouse Heroism & Community Service Awards.

Martinelli, of Chicago's Squad 2, responded to a dwelling fire close to the station. On arrival bystanders informed Martinelli and his officer, Captain Capt. Pat Maloney  that someone was trapped inside the first floor.

Listen as Martinelli gives his scene size-up and walks us through his action as the fire involved the structure, forcing him to retreat to the room he came from while carrying his victim.