[Congressional Record Volume 142, Number 55 (Thursday, April 25, 1996)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E642]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




         HONORING THE SALEM-BLACKMAN VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT

                                 ______


                            HON. BART GORDON

                              of tennessee

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, April 25, 1996

  Mr. GORDON. Mr. Speaker, I am taking this opportunity to applaud the 
invaluable services provided by the Salem-Blackman Volunteer Fire 
Department. These brave, civic minded people give freely of their time 
so that we may all feel safer at night.
  Few realize the depth of training and hard work that goes into being 
a volunteer firefighter. To quote one of my local volunteers, ``These 
firemen must have an overwhelming desire to do for others while 
expecting nothing in return.''
  Preparation includes twice-monthly training programs in which they 
have live drills, study the latest videos featuring the latest in 
firefighting tactics, as well as attend seminars where they can obtain 
the knowledge they need to save lives. Within a year of becoming a 
volunteer firefighter, most attend the Tennessee Fire Training School 
in Murfreesboro where they undergo further, intensified training.
  When the residents of my district go to bed at night, they know that 
should disaster strike and their homes catch fire, well-trained and 
qualified volunteer fire departments are ready and willing to give so 
graciously and generously of themselves. This peace of mind should not 
be taken for granted.
  By selflessly giving of themselves, they ensure a safer future for us 
all. We owe these volunteer fire departments a debt of gratitude for 
their service and sacrifice.

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