Physician Robert Litman lost his son in a fire last month that would have killed him if firefighters hadn't arrived in time.

Though June 22, the night when a fire destroyed the family's Blackhawk home, is forever in Litman's memory as a tragedy, he said he's grateful to the firefighters who saved him from the smoke which killed 19-year-old Benjamin Litman.

"How do you thank someone who saved my life?" he asked Wednesday night at a San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District meeting where eight fire fighters were awarded medals for their work that early June morning. "Thank you."

Litman's daughter Nadya and wife Niki cried as he spoke. The standing-room-only crowd trained their eyes on the San Ramon doctor, who firefighters found unconscious on the bathroom floor in the family's Blackhawk home.

Fire Chief Richard Price said when the fire company arrived at the home that evening, flames had already licked up much of the mansion.

The fire is said to have began in the attic, although the cause of the fire is still under investigation. Fire Marshal Christina Jamison said the investigation may be complete within the next two weeeks.

Because of the location of the fire, Firefighters stormed in to the home with its roof collapsing, as they risked their  lives to save the family and put out the fire.

"Tonight, as we recognize the risks each of these members took with their own lives, and the great sense of accomplishment that the rescue of doctor Litman provides, every member of this agency wishes we could have done more that night," he said."Through district Chaplain Jeremy Mann, we have remained at the family's side since that night, and we will walk alongside this family for as long as they need us."

Firefighters found Benjamin Litman dead in his bedroom from smoke inhalation.

Benjamin was a senior at Venture school in San Ramon.

Andy Enzminger taught Benjamin for about two years at Venture while he finished his high school courses through the independent study program.

Enzminger remembers him as a classically trained musician who produced his own albums, laying down tracks of guitar, vocals and piano, some of which he gave to Enzminger and also made available online.

He said the two talked a lot about music and particularly, Bob Dylan.

"He was extremely intelligent, very well read and had an encyclopedic knowledge of a number of things," he said. "Music seemed to be his passion."

A private memorial service was held for Benjamin on July 4.

At a glance
Recipients of the Medal of Valor: Captain Mike Avery, Captain Scott Carillo, Captain Alan Gwiazdon, Engineer Paul Jannisse and Engineer Rich Perry.

Recipients of the Medal of Bravery: Firefighter/Paramedic Shane Bennett, Firefighter/Paramedic Grant Sparkes and Firefighter/Paramedic Mick Ybarra.