November 3, 2022 – Three of Flagler County Fire Rescue’s own were honored recently by the Daytona Beach News-Journal as “Hometown Heroes” at its fourth annual gala. Recognition was given to Firefighter-Paramedic Andy Thomas, Lt. Andrew Hardesty, and Lt. Jon Moscowitz – who was additionally named Hometown Hero of the Year.
The event that was held on October 28 honored 30 outstanding first responders from Volusia and Flagler counties.
“Day in and day out, I am so proud of my team,” said Fire Chief Mike Tucker, who was as surprised by the recognition of his staff as they were themselves. “I was just invited to the gala as a first responder myself, so it was a thrill to hear their names called.”
Flagler County Sheriff Rick Staly presented Moscowitz with the “Hero of the Year” award given to acknowledge a first responder who has gone above and beyond the call of duty.
The News-Journal provided quotes from the nominations. They are as follows:
- “Andy Thomas is a firefighter paramedic who goes above and beyond for Flagler County. He constantly is trying to raise morale and build up his brothers and sisters. He brings awareness to MDA boot drives, he spearheads 9/11 memorial stair climbs and is a member of several teams including Peer Fitness, Marine Rescue and Flight Medic. He is kindhearted and puts everyone before himself.”
- “Andrew Hardesty is a Lieutenant with Flagler County Fire Rescue. He spends his off time as a Cub Scout den leader in Flagler County. He is an advocate for kids in our community. He provides mentoring and hands on learning for our local scouts. As a Fire Rescue Lieutenant, he goes above and beyond his call of duty. He is on the Marine Rescue Team and saved a drowning victim in 2021 at the Hammock.”
- “Jon Moscowitz is a Lieutenant with Flagler County Fire Rescue. He created a box called Brookie Boxes. The boxes are on every fire truck and rescue in Flagler County. The boxes contain objects to soothe children or adults with sensory processing disorders. Lt. Moscowitz daughter has autism. Lt. Moscowitz wants other children and adults to feel comforted in a time of chaos, usually when a firefighter is on scene of an event, it is unpleasant. He created these boxes to make the children more comfortable and allow them to better to communicate with any child with disabilities. During the holidays, Lt. Moscowitz also hosts an annual toy drive at his house to raise money and toys for under privileged children in the community.”
County Administrator Heidi Petito also praised the Fire Rescue staff members.
“We hear stories everyday about the good deeds and hard work of our staff,” she said. “It’s nice that they received this public recognition for their service.”
