Delran police patrolman Erdem Ucak didn’t think twice about his safety when he responded to a fire at the Edgewater Manor Apartments on Dec. 28.
While evacuating residents from the apartment buildings, emergency responders encountered a man on a balcony showing signs of smoke inhalation and burn injuries. He initially resisted assistance from responding firefighters, officials said.
Ucak – without hesitation – climbed the fire apparatus ladder, pulled the man over the railing and down the ladder to safety.
For his response, neighboring Edgewater Park honored Ucak with an award of valor through a proclamation on March 6.
“Without patrolman Ucak’s quick actions, the man would have suffered serious bodily injuries, possibly resulting in death,” the proclamation stated.
Edgewater Park officials recognized Ucak along with patrolman Isael Torres-Jimenez – of the Beverly City Police Department – for their bravery. Ucak also received the Honor-Valor Award from the Burlington County 200 Club on March 8.
The club assists and pays tribute to the county’s police, fire, and emergency squad members.
