Golden Trumpet

2025 Award Recipient

Senator Monica R. Martinez

Sen. Martinez Receives Golden Trumpet Award for Dedication to Volunteer Fire Service

State Sen. Monica R. Martinez (D–Brentwood) received FASNY’s Golden Trumpet Award on Nov. 1 for her longstanding support of volunteer firefighters and EMS providers.

The award, established over 30 years ago, honors individuals whose dedication strengthens New York’s volunteer fire service. Past recipients include Kurt Vonnegut and former U.S. Senator Al D’Amato.

Martinez, who immigrated from El Salvador at age three, was recognized for her work as Chair of the Senate Local Government Committee. She has championed reforms to the Volunteer Firefighter Benefit Law, recruitment and retention programs, emergency communications, disaster preparedness, lithium-ion battery safety, 9/11 responder health, EMS cost recovery, and designation of EMS as an essential service.

Martinez is the prime sponsor or co-sponsor of 17 active bills benefiting first responders, has secured more than $150,000 in funding for volunteer departments in her district, and has advocated for tax exemptions and retirement service credits for volunteers and their families. She has also proposed legislation to increase penalties for anyone who endangers emergency service providers.

At the ceremony, Martinez praised volunteers’ courage, highlighted programs like “Vets to Volleys,” and urged continued support for first responders and their families. “Because you are essential, you are important,” she said. “I am honored to receive this award and will continue to be your trumpet in the legislature.”

Past Award Recipients