[Congressional Record Volume 140, Number 101 (Thursday, July 28, 1994)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]


[Congressional Record: July 28, 1994]
From the Congressional Record Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]

 
      STAATSBURG, NY, FIRE DEPARTMENT CELEBRATES 100TH ANNIVERSARY

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                        HON. GERALD B.H. SOLOMON

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, July 28, 1994

  Mr. SOLOMON. Mr. Speaker, those of you have been to my office know 
that the walls of the reception area are lined with fire helmets.
  It's my small way of paying respect to volunteer firefighters, having 
been one myself for 20 years in my hometown, and therefore knowing what 
a great job they do. Today, I'd like to single out one of those 
volunteer fire companies, the Staatsburg Fire Department, which is 
celebrating its 100th year of service this Saturday, August 6.
  Mr. Speaker, in rural districts like the New York 22d, the only 
available fire protection comes from volunteer companies, which are 
made up of people from every income level and walk of life. What they 
all have in common is civic pride and a high level of dedication. In 
New York State, for example, volunteer firemen save countless lives and 
billions of dollars worth of property. Volunteers attend frequent 
training classes to upgrade their skills, and the result shows in their 
quick responses to fire alarms and their professionalism in 
extinguishing fires.
  Nothing is more all-American, as far as I'm concerned, than volunteer 
firefighting. It's exactly this desire to treat one's neighbors like 
family and to come to their aid in times of danger that sets Americans 
apart.
  The Staatsburg Fire Department has been typical in that regard for 
one century now. They will celebrate that century with exhibits, 
demonstrations, sports and some great food, and I'm looking forward to 
joining them.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask you and all Members to join me in a salute to the 
Staatsburg Fire Department for its 100 years of outstanding fire 
protection.

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