DUNBARTON – Several Dunbarton Police employees were recognized for their outstanding effort and performance during a September structure fire at an employee recognition ceremony on Dec. 17.

On Sept. 22, the Dunbarton Police Department received a report of a structure fire at 1194 Montalona Road.

The on-duty officer covering the shift responded to the scene, arriving within seconds of the dispatch.

Upon arrival officer Gary Guevin found a fully involved structure fire. He radioed his findings to dispatch so that appropriate notifications and updates could be made to fire personnel that would be arriving shortly.

Guevin quickly assessed the situation and learned that one of the homeowners had entered the burning structure to free his horses from inside. At great personal risk, Guevin entered the burning structure to assist the homeowner with the removal of the horses and usher him to safety.

The roof of the structure collapsed just minutes after Guevin and the homeowner exited the fiery structure. Undoubtedly, Guevin’s actions helped to avert a more serious tragedy.

Guevin continued his assessment of the scene and determined that additional police resources would be needed to manage traffic and facilitate the orderly flow of fire apparatus and personnel arriving from as far away as Chichester and Warner. In all, 12 communities responded to battle the blaze.

Officer Joe Milioto and auxiliary officer Lenny LaMarca were contacted at their homes and immediately responded to the scene.

A short time later, officer Shayne Durant came upon the scene and stopped to join his fellow officers. It was a hectic scene as fire apparatus, bystanders and representative of various media outlets began to converge on the scene.

The actions of these officers most certainly assisted in the orderly management of an extensive fire and traffic scene.

Chief Christopher Connelly presented a Medal of Valor to Guevin for his display of personal bravery during the incident.

He also awarded Letters of Commendation to Milioto, LaMarca and Durant for their actions on Sept. 22 and for their selfless dedication and service to the community of Dunbarton.