Hometown heroes honored by Red Cross

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) - The Pioneer Valley Red Cross honored ten western Massachusetts men and women as Hometown Heroes Wednesday morning.

22News reporter Sy Becker co-hosted the annual event at the Mass Mutual Center in downtown Springfield.

The ten people honored on Wednesday: Donna and Kevin Quesnel of Monson, George Gorton of Ware, Pastor Greg Dyson of Springfield, Jessica Dyson of Springfield, Police Chief John Cotton of Williamsburg, Bobi Steingart of Longmeadow, Denise Nostin of West Springfield, Joseph Lesniak of Indian Orchard, and Missy Kielbasa of Westfield.

One by one these hometown heroes were recognized for either saving lives or helping others improve their lives. 22News presented each of their inspiring stories on giant screens in the center ballroom.

The executive director of the Pioneer Valley Red Cross, Rick Lee, began honoring hometown heroes seven years ago following the terror attacks on 9/11. The event has grown larger each year.

The hometown heroes’ accomplishments left a powerful impression on people in the audience.

“It was very inspiring. It's worth it to know there are so many caring people out there,” Maura Ruana of Agawam said.

“It lifts our spirits. We can go back to work realizing there are out there, who will put their lives at risk of others,” Dave Sanford of Springfield said.