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WORCESTER (AP) - Two Massachusetts firefighters who died lastDecember in separate fires will receive posthumous medals of honor from thestate.
Peabody firefighter James Rice died after breathing toxic fumes whilefighting a three-alarm fire.
Worcester firefighter Jon D. Davies Sr. died after a burning buildingcollapsed on him. Davies had gone back into the building after a report someonemight be inside.
State officials will bestow the honors Tuesday at Mechanics Hall inWorcester as part of the annual Firefighter of the Year awards.
The awards recognize acts of bravery and excellence in fire service, andhonors will go to Massachusetts firefighters from 14 jurisdictions.
Worcester Polytechnic Institute also will be recognized for researchprojects involving firefighter safety.
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