When Gregory Green was 10 years old, Jersey City firefighters rescued him from a house fire.

In the 55 years since his rescue, Green has been a frequent visitor at the firehouse at 582 Communipaw Ave., where over the years he has helped with chores and kept the firefighters company. He calls it his “second home.”

On Friday, the Jersey City Fire Department recognized Green — known affectionately as “GG” — for his 55 years of volunteer service by giving him the honorary title of deputy fire chief during the department’s annual Meritorious Award Ceremony at City Hall.

The ceremony pays special tribute to firefighters and EMTs for their service. Dozens of families, government officials, and community members packed into the council chambers to show their support.

Green, 65, fought back tears as he was honored for his dedication and support of Jersey City’s Bravest.

“It made me real proud, that’s why I am crying now, that’s why I am tearing now,” said Green, who was joined at the ceremony by family members. “They inspired and trained me… made me family. They made me feel like family most of the time… like being home away from home.”

Green, a cancer survivor who’s battled other crippling health conditions, hasn’t visited the firehouse recently, but firefighters have reversed roles and paid him visits in rehab.

“I saw him four months ago, I didn’t think he would be coming back to the firehouse,” Battalion Chief Steve Drennan said. “He couldn’t stand up, things weren’t looking really good. But just to show you his spirit, his soul — and he loves life so much — he’s back up walking steps. He’s gonna be back at the firehouse real soon, and we can’t wait!”

As part of the ceremony, Green was given a JCFD badge and a framed photo of himself in uniform.

Drennan described Green as a remarkable person who has done so much for the community.

“I have had conversations with Gregory — his heart, his spirit, his soul, is incredible, beyond what he does for the fire department," Drennan said. "He’s a gentleman.”