4 PWPD Police Officers Honored by Kiwanis Club

Four were honored by the Kiwanis Club of Manhasset-Port Washington Thursday during a luncheon at the . 

Sgt. Thomas McCarthy, and Police Officers Brandon Vail, Michael DiBiasi, and Nicholas Dello-Iacono were honored for saving the life of a man who suffered a serious heart attack at a residence on Highland Avenue on May 1.

According to Asst. Police Chief James Salerno, "CPR was initiated and the aided was shocked once with the AED [automated external defibrillator]. Upon transport to hospital, the aided had shallow breathing with a pulse."

Police Chief William Kilfoil said the officers were "very professional" and "knew how to respond."

The patient was immediately transported by ambulance to St. Francis Hospital's emergency room.

The Kiwanis Club praised the officers for their "outstanding action and quick response," which saved the man's life.

The officers received the Kiwanis Clubs' first "Outstanding Kiwanis Service Commendation," and were thanked for their service. They also received commendations from Leg. Wayne Wink and Councilwoman Dina DiGeorgio.

At the luncheon, Kiwanis members praised the Port Washington Police District, with comments such as "There is a cop around when you need one" and "When we need you, you are there."

This is the first time the Kiwanis Club has offered the commendation, which will be given when "outstanding action occurs in the service of citizens" of the community, and its first responders, according to the organization. The initiative was led by Kiwanis members Police Commissioner Angela Mullins, Sewlyn "Jerry" Rudnick, Carl Lalena and PBA President Steve Cammer. 

Note: This article was updated to include the correct spelling of Carl Lalena.