CUTCHOGUE, NY — April 3rd —  After completing his training in the United States Air Force and serving with the New York Air National Guard, Firefighter Rocco Horton was recognized by the Cutchogue Fire Department.

After completing basic training at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas, Horton just finished advanced training in Virginia and became certified as a helicopter mechanic. Since then, he has returned home to serve in the New York Air National Guard's 106th Rescue Wing in Westhampton Beach.

Horton's close familial links to the military and fire service were highlighted by department officials. His brother, Lexington, is presently on active service with the U.S. Army abroad, and his father, Lieutenant Ricky Horton, is a veteran of the U.S. Air Force.