by ROB HART
A firefighter from Ladder Co. 78 in West Brighton was honored by the ASPCA yesterday for his heroic efforts in rescuing Assemblyman John Lavelle's dog when a fire destroyed the Democratic leader's Silver Lake home earlier this year.
Firefighter Richard LaPiedra was presented with the ASPCA's Firefighter of the Year award during the organization's annual Humane Awards yesterday at the Rainbow Room in Manhattan.
LaPiedra rescued Ali, Lavelle's 6-year-old black Labrador, from the North Shore Democrat's burning home.
"In deciding Firefighter of the Year, the ASPCA Humane Award Luncheon Committee looked for a compelling story that includes, but is certainly not limited to, a heroic act," said Ed Sayres, president of the ASPCA.
Speaking to the Advance immediately after the April fire, LaPiedra said Ali was unruffled when firefighters entered the house, despite fire "blowing out of the kitchen" and low visibility due to heavy smoke.
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