Whitesboro Students Honored with New York State’s Highest Civilian Award for Heroic Act

As the school year came to a close, four students from Whitesboro High School were recognized not just for their academic efforts, but for saving a family from a devastating house fire. Their courage earned them the New York State Senate Liberty Medal, the highest civilian award presented by the state.

A Life-Saving Decision After Junior Prom

On the night of May 17, while heading home from the junior prom, Aiden Kane, Morgan Randall, Tyler Sodj, and Donato Jellenich noticed a garage engulfed in flames on Cavanaugh Road in Marcy. Rather than passing by, the students jumped into action. They:

• Helped evacuate the family inside the home

• Checked for anyone trapped in the garage

• Called emergency responders

• Comforted the family’s children until help arrived

Read More: Whitesboro Teens Save Young Girls And Dad From Fire After Prom 

Their quick thinking and bravery directly contributed to saving lives and preventing further tragedy.

Honored with the Senate Liberty Medal

On June 16, the students were formally awarded the New York State Senate Liberty Medal during a special ceremony at the Whitesboro High School Auditorium. This medal is reserved for civilians who demonstrate exceptional bravery, selflessness, and service to their community.

Read More: New York Senate Accepting 2025 Educator Award Nominations

Friends, family members, school faculty, and local officials attended the ceremony, praising the students’ actions as a shining example of youth leadership and community spirit.

Recognized by Their School and Community

In addition to the state honor, the Whitesboro School Board presented each student with a commemorative plaque. Their heroic actions reflect values Central New York parents strive to instill in their children: compassion, courage, and the instinct to do what’s right, even when no one’s watching.