49ers To Honor First Responders In San Bruno Blast

SAN FRANCISCO (KCBS) -- First responders to the San Bruno pipeline blast and fire earlier this year will be honored during Sunday's San Francisco 49ers game.

Team President Jed York said when they were searching for this year's recipient of the Niners' Hometown Hero designation, San Bruno came up almost immediately.

"I think it's so important to recognize these folks because they're not out there because they're being paid millions of dollars and because they're going to get fame and glory," said York. "They love what they do and they're trying to help the community. When you have a tragedy that happened like the San Bruno fire, you have people that are risking their lives trying to save everybody else."

KCBS' Mark Seelig Reports:

York said they were not just talking about those most visible, like the firefighters and police. But also those who were tirelessly behind the scenes back in early September to help put out the flames and keep residents safe and secure.

San Bruno Mayor Jim Ruane said he couldn't be more pleased.

"It's very well deserved. We really appreciate the 49ers in helping us out," Ruane said. "It's wonderful in recognizing these people, heroes and unsung heroes that took part in this devastating disaster that we had."

About a hundred city employees will be at the game, where they'll be fed and also will be recognized during a halftime celebration.

(© 2010 CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.)