Bellmore Hero Honored For Saving Neighbor's Life

A Bellmore man was honored by the Town of Hempstead today for bravely running to a burning home to save his neighbor.

Gregory Griffin was recognized by Hempstead Town Supervisor Don Clavin and councilmen Dennis Dunne, Sr. and Christopher Carini for his act of heroism. Griffin was awarded a special Hometown Hero award and was presented with the key to the town.

“The actions of Mr. Griffin were that of a hero,” said Clavin. “The way a person acts in a moment of emergency says a great deal about them. Suffice to say, Mr. Griffin’s response is emblematic of his remarkable character and caring nature. We are truly fortunate to have Gregory Griffin as one of our township’s hometown heroes.”

On Jan. 9, the home of the Whelan family caught fire, and the flames quickly spread throughout the house. Griffin was the first person on the scene, and was told that there was still a person trapped inside. Without hesitating, he ran into the building, and minutes later, came out with his neighbor's son.

“While serving as a Port Authority Police Officer, I’ve seen emergency situations that require split-second decision making and incredible courage,” said Carini. “The situation Mr. Griffin found himself in required just that. I applaud this man’s courage and his ability to keep a cool head in a life-and-death situation.”

“A true testament of a hometown hero, Mr. Griffin put his life on the line for a fellow neighbor,” commented Dunne. “It is residents like Mr. Griffin that make our township stand a cut above the rest.”