Bridgeport bestowed its annual Living Legends Award Sunday to a longtime firefighter.

Regina Scates, 42, was honored for a distinguished career in the fire service, and for being the city's first black female fire inspector.

"I've been operating as a firefighter, and to have worked hard to accomplish these fire Marshall certifications is a tremendous impact, not only for myself, but for the community and it gives hope and it gives encouragement to members of the community to work hard and go after your dreams," says Scates.

Scates works for the city's fire Marshall division.

She says she's proud to accept the honor as part of Bridgeport's Black History Month celebrations.