FDNY Captain Jonathan Rivera’s extraordinary promotion comes after heroically rescuing an NYPD officer sinking chest-deep in deadly mud and saving a man crushed by a freight train, showing his rise from high school dropout to decorated emergency services leader.
Key Takeaways
- The FDNY celebrated 84 EMS promotions at St. John’s University, including Lieutenant Jonathan Rivera’s elevation to Captain after two medal-worthy rescues
- Captain Rivera rescued an NYPD officer trapped in marsh mud and saved a civilian hit by a freight train, requiring dangerous access over the railway infrastructure
- Rivera serves as a Special Operations instructor and leads the EMS competition team, representing FDNY’s commitment to excellence
- The ceremony promoted one deputy chief, three captains, 17 lieutenants, and recognized 63 EMTs graduating from the Paramedic Basic Program
- FDNY Medal Day has been a departmental tradition since 1869, honoring the courage, commitment, and compassion of emergency personnel
From High School Dropout to Decorated Hero
The FDNY’s recent promotion ceremony at St. John’s University showcased the department’s finest, with Captain Jonathan Rivera’s story standing out among the 84 personnel honored. Rivera’s journey from high school dropout to decorated emergency services leader exemplifies the caliber of professionals serving New York City. His career trajectory demonstrates how dedication and bravery in emergency services can open doors for those willing to put their lives on the line for fellow New Yorkers, regardless of educational background. Rivera later completed his education, earning a college degree while building his remarkable career with the FDNY.
Rivera’s promotion comes after two separate incidents where his quick thinking and courage earned him departmental medals. These heroic actions represent the highest traditions of emergency service and reflect the values President Trump has consistently praised in first responders. While many Americans face struggles in their educational journey, Rivera’s story proves that with determination and commitment to service, extraordinary achievements are possible even for those who take non-traditional paths to success.
Dramatic Rescues That Earned Recognition
Rivera’s first medal-worthy rescue involved an NYPD officer who became trapped in dangerous marsh conditions while off duty. “On his lunch break, he decided to go fishing with a new rod that he had. Didn’t realize that it rained the night before he started sinking in the marsh,” explained Rivera, FDNY Captain. The situation was life-threatening, with the officer already submerged past his chest when emergency services arrived. Rivera’s ingenuity proved critical to a successful rescue.
“So between my partner and I, we built a kind of bridge system with long boards and some ropes and everything. We were able to get him out before he completely submerged. He was in the past his chest when we got there, but was able to access his cellphone,” said Rivera, FDNY Captain.
Rivera’s second medal came after responding to a man struck by a freight train, requiring extreme measures to reach the victim. The complex rescue operation demanded specialized skills and equipment. Rivera’s team had to navigate dangerous railway infrastructure to provide life-saving care, highlighting the risks FDNY personnel willingly take to save lives. These heroic actions exemplify why our first responders deserve the utmost respect and support from all Americans, regardless of political affiliation.
Beyond Field Operations: Leadership and Training
Captain Rivera’s contributions extend beyond his field rescues. He now serves as an instructor with the FDNY’s Special Operations Command, training the next generation of emergency responders in advanced life-saving techniques. Rivera also leads the department’s EMS competition team, representing the FDNY in events that test the skills and readiness of emergency medical personnel. His evolution from field operator to leader and educator demonstrates the depth of talent within the department and shows how dedicated professionals can contribute to public safety in multiple capacities.
“The Fire Department’s Medal Day Book is published annually to honor the courage, commitment, and compassion of all FDNY members. Medal Day is one of the Department’s most time-honored traditions, dating back to 1869,” stated FDNY.
The recent ceremony included promotions across multiple ranks, reflecting the department’s commitment to recognizing excellence and developing leadership. One new deputy chief, three lieutenants elevated to captain, 17 paramedics promoted to lieutenant, and 63 EMTs graduating from the Paramedic Basic Program were all celebrated during the event. These promotions ensure continuity of leadership and maintain the high standards that make the FDNY a model for emergency services nationwide, providing essential protection for taxpaying citizens.
FDNY Tradition of Excellence Continues
The FDNY’s promotion ceremony is part of a broader tradition of excellence that includes Medal Day, dating back to 1869. This longstanding tradition recognizes the extraordinary courage displayed by New York’s first responders and provides public acknowledgment of their sacrifices. While many government institutions have abandoned traditional values, the FDNY maintains its focus on merit, bravery, and service – principles that resonate deeply with conservative Americans who value hard work and dedication to community safety above all else.
“He received multiple tourniquets and IVs, and fluids, and he lost his leg. To get to him, the firefighters had to cut the fences, and then we had to use harnesses and everything to climb over the train that was already docked there to get to the patient,” recounted Rivera, FDNY Captain.
Beyond promotions, the FDNY Foundation continues to support the department’s mission through various initiatives, including the graduation of students from the Capt. Vernon A. Richard High School for Fire and Life Safety and the launch of the 2026 Calendar of Heroes. The foundation also recently hosted the 3rd Annual FDNY Foundation Climb to Summit at One Vanderbilt, an event that builds camaraderie while raising funds for essential programs. These activities strengthen the department’s community ties and ensure its continued excellence in emergency response.
