Islip Town Supervisor Angie Carpenter and the Islip Town Board recently honored Richard Mosback at the May Town Board Meeting for his courageous actions on April 3rd, 2024. Mosback, a Nassau County Police Officer, demonstrated extraordinary bravery when he risked his own life to save a neighbor trapped in a burning home.
While at home that afternoon, Mosback looked out the window and spotted his neighbor's house engulfed in flames. Acting swiftly, he dashed to the scene where he found West Sayville Volunteer Firefighter AJ Spitzfaden trapped on the second floor. Recognizing the thick smoke as an obstacle to an indoor rescue, Mosback stopped a nearby contractor, urging them to dial 911, before rushing back home to get a ladder. With emergency responders on their way and the ladder in place, Mosback climbed up to AJ, rescuing him from the fire just in the nick of time. Moments after the rescue, the fire intensified, underscoring the urgency and gravity of Mosback's actions. His decisive intervention prevented a potential tragedy and exemplified the importance of community solidarity in times of crisis.
“Richard Mosback's heroic actions and unwavering determination to help a neighbor in need, even in the face of imminent danger, saved a life and prevented further tragedy. His exceptional courage serves as a reminder to us all that heroes walk among us every day,” said Supervisor Angie Carpenter. “On behalf of myself and the Town Board, we extend our sincerest gratitude to Richard Mosback for his extraordinary bravery and commitment to the safety and well-being of others.”
CREDIT: Town of Islip