On April 25, the New Jersey State Firemen's Benevolent Association hosted its yearly Valor Awards Dinner at Pines Manor.

Firefighters Nicholas Cioffi, Christopher Fazio, Doug Saffioti, and Timothy Griffin, the Long Branch Fire Captain and Monmouth Beach Fire Chief, were among those honored with the Bronze Medal of Valor.

The Long Branch City Fire Department's response to many swimmers in difficulty at Cottage Avenue Beach on September 18, 2025, was recognized with this award. To perform rescues, crews ventured into choppy waves. Cioffi and Fazio removed one victim. Before being lost in strong waves and asking for assistance, Saffioti helped another victim. With the help of shore workers, all firefighters were successfully recovered after Fazio and Griffin went back into the water to help. The second casualty was then brought to shore with Gryphon's assistance.

According to officials, the activities showed cooperation, coordination, and dedication to rescue efforts in challenging circumstances.