[Congressional Record Volume 141, Number 96 (Tuesday, June 13, 1995)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1227]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


      FREEHOLD FIRE COMPANY CELEBRATES 50 YEARS OF FIGHTING FIRES

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                        HON. GERALD B.H. SOLOMON

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, June 13, 1995
  Mr. SOLOMON. Mr. Speaker, anyone who visits my office can't help but 
notice the display of fire helmets that dominates my reception area. 
They're there for two reasons. First, I had the privilege of being a 
volunteer fireman in my hometown of Queensbury for more than 20 years, 
which helps explain the second reason, the tremendous respect that 
experience gave me for those who provide fire protection in our rural 
areas.
  Mr. Speaker, in a rural area like the 22d district of New York, fire 
protection is often solely in the hands of these volunteer companies. 
In New York State alone they save countless lives and billions of 
dollars worth of property. This is why the efforts of people like those 
fire fighters in Freehold, NY, is so critical.
  This fire company was established in 1945 by a group of people 
concerned with the safety of their neighbors in Freehold. Originally, 
the village was under the jurisdiction of the East Durham volunteer 
fire company, however, it became apparent that their territory was too 
large to adequately service Freehold. Therefore, a group of concerned 
residents took it upon themselves to form their own fire company to 
protect local citizens. This, Mr. Speaker, is the true spirit of 
volunteerism which made our Nation what it is today. It is tribute to 
this uniquely American concept that the Freehold Fire Company has 
continued to ensure the safety of their neighbors for 50 years now.
  Aside from providing fire protection, the Freehold Fire Company and 
its members have become an integral part of the community over the 
years. They have steadily been able to improve their facilities in 
order to host various dinners and activities. By renovating their 
meeting hall, the Freehold Fire Company cohosted the 86th annual Greene 
County Volunteer Firemen's Convention in 1974. Furthermore, the grounds 
have been the site of the Freehold little league baseball field since 
1975, providing countless youngsters the invaluable experience of being 
part of a team and representing their community. Finally, in 1986, the 
fire company built a new equipment building which effectively doubled 
their equipment and office space.
  For all their extraordinary service and growth, it is clear we owe 
the members of the Freehold Volunteer Fire Company an extreme debt of 
gratitude. This Saturday, June 17th, the community will have the 
opportunity to express their gratitude at an open house. Now, Mr. 
Speaker, I ask you and all Members to rise with me and pay tribute to 
the efforts of those who comprise the history of the Freehold Volunteer 
Fire Department. May they continue to serve the Freehold community for 
another 50 years and beyond.


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