When Scottsdale Ladder Crew 603 arrived at the home of Thomas and Diane Manney just after one a.m. on Sept. 2, they found the couple’s car and garage engulfed in flames.
Containing the blaze in the couple’s duplex was challenging in its own right – but the fire crew was also notified that the homeowners were still inside.
The fire fighters quickly entered the house and despite thick smoke that reduced visibility to zero, they located the couple and carried them to safety. Both Thomas and Diane were transported to Maricopa Medical Center where they were treated for smoke inhalation and subsequently released.
The couple’s car was lost, and both garages and some interior portions of the attached homes were damaged as well.
But thanks to the bravery of Scottsdale Fire Captain Jeff Perry, Engineer Mark Formanek, Firefighter Mike Lyon and Firefighter Wilson Petty (Photo below with the Manneys), the Manneys were able to be present at an award ceremony Sept. 12 where each member of Ladder Crew 603 on duty that morning earned the department’s commendation for valor.
“The actions of these men prevented a tragedy,” said Fire Chief Garret Olsen. “It is my privilege to serve with them, and to recognize their bravery and outstanding commitment to this community.”
Contact:
Deputy Chief Jim Ford
Scottsdale Fire Department
