Everett DPW Employees Receive State’s Highest Civilian Bravery Award on 9/11 Anniversary

• Executive Office of Public Safety and Security

BOSTON- Today, on the 24th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks, the Healey-Driscoll Administration announced the recipients of the prestigious Madeline "Amy" Sweeney Award for Civilian Bravery. Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll presented the award to City of Everett Department of Public Works employees Jesse Winocour and Jason Papa, honoring their extraordinary heroism during a July 2024 fire that endangered numerous residents.

The Sweeney Award, presented each year during the state's annual remembrance ceremony at the State House, commemorates the bravery of flight attendant Madeline "Amy" Sweeney, who relayed critical information about the hijackers aboard American Airlines Flight 11 on September 11, 2001. The award recognizes civilians who, without regard for personal safety, act with extraordinary courage to save others in imminent danger.

"As we mark this solemn day of national remembrance, we honor the lives lost on September 11 and reflect on the extraordinary courage and compassion shown in the face of unimaginable tragedy," said Governor Maura Healey. "The Sweeney Award celebrates that same spirit of selfless bravery. Jesse Winocour and Jason Papa represent the very best of our communities, stepping forward without hesitation, risking their lives to protect others, and reminding us that heroes walk among us every day."

"Today, we honor two individuals who truly embody the spirit of selflessness and courage," said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. "Jesse Winocour and Jason Papa acted without hesitation in the face of life-threatening danger, saving lives at great personal risk. Their actions are a powerful reminder of the bravery demonstrated by Madeline Sweeney and so many others on September 11."

On July 3, 2024, while on a routine errand, Winocour and Papa, both municipal employees, noticed smoke pouring from a multi-family residence on Hancock Street and quickly realized that residents were trapped inside. With no protective equipment and no time to spare, they rushed into the burning building to alert and evacuate the occupants.

Thanks to their quick thinking and courageous response, the pair managed to evacuate 14 individuals from the first and second floors before firefighters arrived, likely preventing multiple fatalities.

As they attempted to reach the third floor, heavy smoke and fire forced them back. Before retreating, they spotted a young, unconscious girl just a few feet away, but could not reach her. They immediately alerted a firefighter to her location. Battling dangerous conditions and at one point calling a mayday, the firefighter was able to carry the child out of the building. Both the girl and the firefighter were treated for smoke inhalation, and the child was successfully revived at the hospital.

Though the fire displaced more than a dozen residents, no lives were lost, thanks to the immediate and fearless actions of Winocour and Papa, as well as the brave response from the Everett Fire Department. Their humility in the aftermath has been as striking as their heroism.

"As we reflect on the tragic events of 9/11, we also celebrate the lasting spirit of bravery and kindness that has emerged from that day," said Public Safety and Security Secretary Terrence Reidy. "Jesse Winocour and Jason Papa stand among a proud legacy of Sweeney Award honorees who have risked everything to protect others. Their courage is a powerful reminder of the resilience and heroism that continues to inspire our nation. On this 24th anniversary, we renew our vow to honor those we lost and uphold the values that unite us."

"We are humbled each year by the remarkable stories of brave citizens putting their lives in harm's way to protect and save others from danger," said Faith Arter, President of the Massachusetts 9/11 Fund who also serves on the Selection Committee. "Jesse Winocour and Jason Papa exemplify the very best of our state and nation, in the true spirit of Madeline "Amy" Sweeney. On behalf of all the families of the Mass 9/11 Fund, we salute them."

Madeline Sweeney, affectionately known as "Amy," was an American Airlines flight attendant for 14 years. She lived in Acton, Massachusetts, with her husband, Michael, and their two children. On September 11, 2001, Amy was working aboard American Airlines Flight 11, the first aircraft hijacked by terrorists and flown into the North Tower of the World Trade Center. In the flight's final minutes, Amy heroically contacted the airline's ground services crew to convey crucial information about the hijackers and their actions on the plane that morning. The Madeline "Amy" Sweeney Award for Civilian Bravery was created to honor her legacy of exceptional heroism and in memory of all those lost to the tragic events of September 11, 2001.

Today's Sweeney Award recipients were nominated by Massachusetts Senator Sal DiDomenico and Representative Joseph McGonagle. Jesse Winocour and Jason Papa were selected by the Sweeney Award Selection Committee, which is chaired by Lieutenant Governor Driscoll.

"Jesse and Jason exemplified true bravery and courage when they risked their personal safety in an effort to save the life of a young girl they had never met before," said State Senator Sal DiDomenico (D- Everett). "I am thrilled to honor these two extraordinary constituents of mine and I hope they and their families are filled with pride."

"Today is a solemn day where we remember who we lost but also who our heroes are. What Jesse and Jason did is nothing short of heroic. They are exemplary citizens who put their own safety aside to help others. Risking their lives and running towards danger is not in their job description, yet they did it anyways without hesitation," said State Representative Joe McGonagle (D- Everett). "I am so grateful to have people like them in the Everett community and I am thrilled we are able to honor them in this way. Thank you to the Governor, Lieutenant Governor and Secretary for all their help in making this possible."

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• Executive Office of Public Safety and Security

  EOPSS is responsible for the policy development and budgetary oversight of its secretariat agencies, independent programs, and several boards which aid in crime prevention, homeland security preparedness, and ensuring the safety of residents and visitors in the Commonwealth.