On Friday, April 4th, 2025, the 100 Club of Buffalo hosted the 66th Annual Hero Awards Dinner at Samuel’s Grande Manor. This year’s event was a heartfelt celebration of the bravery, selflessness, and dedication displayed by Western New York’s first responders and civilians who go above and beyond to serve our community.
Maryalice Demler, who co-anchors Channel 2 News “On Your Side” at 5:00, 6:00, and 11:00 pm each weeknight on WGRZ-TV, served as emcee for the evening. This was the third year Maryalice served as emcee, and once again, she made the evening even more special for the 100 Club of Buffalo and all in attendance.
The Hero Awards Dinner, which has become a hallmark event for the 100 Club, recognizes individuals who have demonstrated extraordinary acts of courage, often at great personal risk. Nominations for these awards are submitted by local agencies, and the Hero Awards Selection Committee makes the final decisions. We are proud to highlight the stories of these honorees and to honor their remarkable contributions.
COMMISSIONER
Buffalo Bills
National Grid
The Community Foundation of Greater Buffalo
The Paul Sullivan Family Foundation
The George Hyde Family Foundation
LIEUTENANT
David M. Hatcher
Robert Zak
Ray Gallagher
Raymond M. Nowicki
Dan Slawson
Rob Vogel
John Schmidt
Peter Casilio
Bison Iron &Step
Ralph Vanner, Jr.
CORPORATE
Frey Electric
David Meller
Additionally, the 100 Club of Buffalo would like to thank the 66th Annual Hero Award Table Sponsors:
Anthony A. Trusso
Abbey Mecca
Brendan Donovan Family
Buffalo Professional Fire Fighters Union Local #282
Buffalo Police PBA
Cheektowaga Police Department
Erie County Medical Center
Erie County Sheriff’s PBA
Genesee County Sheriff’s Department
Judge John White – Town of Cheektowaga
Newman Properties, Inc.
New York State Police
Lewiston Police Department
COCKTAIL RECEPTION SPONSOR
Gilmour and Killelea LLP
Tompkins Community Bank
CENTERPIECES
Tops Friendly Markets
Recognizing Courage in Action
Deputy Mason Bonafede – Erie County Sheriff’s Department
Deputy Mason Bonafede was honored for his heroic actions on October 7, 2024. When responding to a distress call involving a man in crisis, Deputy Bonafede acted quickly to save the individual’s life. He tackled the man before he could step off a ledge, preventing a tragedy. His quick thinking and decisive actions demonstrated his unwavering commitment to protecting life.
Officer Matthew Arnold – Cheektowaga Police Department
On February 17, 2024, Officer Matthew Arnold responded to a crisis intervention call in Cheektowaga, NY. When the situation escalated and the suspect aimed a loaded gun at his sergeant, Officer Arnold charged at the suspect, disarmed her, and prevented a potentially deadly situation. His selflessness and bravery earned him the Cheektowaga Police Department’s Chief’s Medal of Valor.
Trooper Adam T. Moen – New York State Police and Officer Cody Bruyere – Lewiston Police Department
Trooper Adam T. Moen and Officer Cody Bruyere were honored for their courageous actions on March 27, 2024, when they responded to a crash involving a Lewiston police vehicle and a tractor-trailer. Despite the flames engulfing the patrol car, both officers risked their lives to rescue the trapped officer and provide emergency medical aid. Their quick response saved a life that day.
Captain Matthew Rathke, Firefighter Brendan Donovan, Firefighter Bao Mai, Firefighter Cronan Long – Buffalo Fire Department
On February 25, 2025, Captain Matthew Rathke, Firefighter Brendan Donovan, Firefighter Bao Mai, and Firefighter Cronan Long were honored for their heroic efforts during a blaze at 167 Parkview Avenue in Buffalo. Despite intense heat and smoke, these firefighters rescued victims from a burning building, including carrying a 300-pound man to safety. Their courage and teamwork saved multiple lives.
Officer Troy Blackchief – Cheektowaga Police Department
Officer Troy Blackchief was honored for his bravery on February 6, 2023, when he attempted to stop a dangerous stolen vehicle pursuit. During the pursuit, Officer Blackchief was struck by a speeding vehicle, suffering life-threatening injuries. Despite the challenges of his recovery, Officer Blackchief continues to demonstrate remarkable strength, and his bravery serves as an inspiration to his colleagues and the community.
Zone Sergeant Dennis A. Nolder – New York State Police
On March 24, 2024, Zone Sergeant Dennis A. Nolder exhibited extraordinary bravery during a violent standoff with an armed suspect in Allegany County. He led the operation to contain the suspect, and when the situation escalated, he personally pursued the armed suspect, engaging in a struggle that ultimately secured the suspect and prevented further harm. Sergeant Nolder’s leadership and courage were instrumental in resolving the crisis.
Charles Sergel – Civilian Hero
On April 17, 2024, Charles Sergel displayed remarkable heroism when he witnessed a barn fire in the Town of Aurora. Upon learning that a young girl was trapped inside, he entered the smoke-filled building, located her, and carried her to safety. Both Sergel and the girl were transported to the hospital for smoke inhalation, but thanks to Sergel’s bravery, the young girl survived. His quick thinking and selfless actions saved her life.
Officer Ronald Ammerman – Buffalo Police Department
On July 10, 2024, Officer Ronald Ammerman was involved in a life-threatening traffic stop on Kensington Avenue. When the suspect attempted to flee, Officer Ammerman clung to the vehicle’s door to prevent being thrown to the pavement. Despite the danger, he managed to neutralize the suspect, saving an unrestrained child inside the vehicle. Officer Ammerman’s bravery ensured the safety of an innocent child and prevented further tragedy.
Sergeant Thomas A. Sanfratello – Genesee County Sheriff’s Department
Sergeant Thomas A. Sanfratello’s life was tragically cut short in March 2024 after a violent altercation at Batavia Downs Casino. Despite his best efforts to subdue an assailant, Sergeant Sanfratello became unresponsive and later passed away from the injuries sustained in the struggle. His courage and dedication to serving his community will never be forgotten, and his family accepted the Hero Award on his behalf.
Reflecting on the Evening
The 66th Annual Hero Awards Dinner was a night to celebrate the extraordinary people who make our community safer. From law enforcement officers to firefighters and civilians, the honorees of this year’s event have demonstrated unparalleled courage and dedication to others. The 100 Club of Buffalo is honored to be part of such a meaningful tradition, recognizing these everyday heroes who go above and beyond.
We want to express our deepest gratitude to all the first responders and civilians who continue to serve our community, often at great personal risk. Your bravery and sacrifice do not go unnoticed. The 100 Club of Buffalo is proud to support you and your families through our services and initiatives.
Thank You to Our Supporters
This event would not have been possible without the support of our generous members, donors, and local businesses. Thank you for standing with us as we continue to honor and support the heroes of Western New York.
A full gallery of images from the 66th Annual Hero Awards can be viewed here.
