Recognizing and honoring Philadelphia Firefighter Joseph Rippert for his consistent bravery and courage, and for earning the "Firefighter of the Year" Award.

WHEREAS, Joseph Rippert is a resident of the Roxborough Neighborhood of Philadelphia. Rippert is a former member of the United States Army, carpenter by trade and a married father of two; and

WHEREAS, Rippert serves as a firefighter for the Philadelphia Fire Department with Engine 35 in East Falls; and

WHEREAS, On March 17, 2019, Rippert was off duty, yet still responded to a fire at 4:30 AM on the 500 block of Fairway Terrace in Roxborough; and

WHEREAS, Rippert rushed into the burning home, without his gear, and rescued an unconscious 25-year-old man, who was later rushed to the hospital to be treated for smoke inhalation. After this heroic rescue, Rippert stayed on the scene to assist responding fire fighters; and

WHEREAS, On October 23, 2019, Joseph Rippert was recognized for his actions, and was awarded with the Philadelphia “Firefighter of the Year” honors; and

WHEREAS, Rippert has been with the Philadelphia Fire Department for less than two years, and credited the Fire Academy for giving him all the skills and tools he needed to be able to respond to such a critical situation; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, That it hereby recognizes and honors Philadelphia Firefighter Joseph Rippert for his consistent bravery and courage, and for earning the “Firefighter of the Year” Award.

FURTHER RESOLVED, That an Engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to Joseph Rippert as evidence of the sincere respect and gratitude of this legislative body.

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