ALL HAIL NEW YORK'S HIDDEN HEROES
Here are the winners of the New York Post's inaugural Liberty Medals, chosen Thursday night, September 26, 2002, at Gracie Mansion, from more than 1,500 nominations:
For the man or woman who revealed
the finest qualities of New York to the world.
 Harold Bill De Long
Harold Bill de Long might be 81, but don't call him an old man.For the past 36 years de Long has been a waiter at Shea Stadium's Diamond Club but -- and more importantly for the hundreds he's helped throughout his life -- he's committed all his spare time to working as a volunteer in Third World countries all over the globe.
For the firefighter or EMS technician whose performance
in the line of duty best exemplifies
the department's unflinching heroism.
 Jeffrey Johnson
On Sept. 11, firefighter Jeffrey Johnson's ingenuity saved three civilians trapped inside the badly damaged Marriott Hotel.
For the person whose activities most improved the quality of life in a borough or neighborhood, or bettered conditions at a particular public place.
 Dr. Nicoletta Pallotta
Dr. Nicoletta Pallotta is living the American dream - while rescuing countless women from their nightmares. Pallotta - the founder and director of the largest women's health center in New York City, counsels battered women and runs marathons.
For a notable act of bravery by a civilian that contributed to saving a human life.
 James Wolters
It was a freezing morning last February when two nurses working on Rikers Island mistakenly backed their car into the East River and were trapped in the sinking vehicle in bitterly cold water up to their necks.
For an administrator or teacher who excels at preparing the next generation of New Yorkers for their future challenges.
 Thomas Porton
Teacher Thomas Porton believes in educating the heart as well as the mind. That's why his Bronx students head outside the classroom to learn - and teach - valuable lessons about AIDS and HIV in the community.
For a New Yorker from a foreign land who
best embodies the immigrant values of honesty,
industriousness and hard-earned success.
 Nino Vendome
On September 13, 2001, Antonio "Nino" Vendome turned his restaurant into a home for Ground Zero workers and dished up free food round-the-clock for five months.
For the youth under 17 who most impressively displayed adult resolve. This award is not for a physical feat, but for behavior that displays moral character or mature judgment.
 Jonathan Stewart
The dust blinded Sgt. Gerard Kane and choked off his air as he wandered downtown weak and disoriented close to the World Trade Center after the first tower collapsed on Sept. 11.
For compassionate, disciplined leadership in service
of the common good.
 John Jonas
After The World Trade Center towers collapsed Sept. 11, FDNY Captain John Jonas led five of his fellow Ladder 6 firefighters and an injured woman to safety - by the sheer power of will.
For the police officer whose on-the-job performance reflects the department's honor and selflessness.
 Shaun McGill
On the morning of Sept. 11, rookie cop Shaun McGill was filling out a traffic accident report in Battery Park City when the first plane hit the World Trade Center.
For the individual whose accomplishments
reflect the very best of our city.
  Yvonne Rhem-Tittle and Dr. Richard Leinhardt
Lifetime Achievement Liberty Medals were awarded to two nominees -- Yvonne Rhem-Tittle and Dr. Richard Leinhardt.
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