[Congressional Record Volume 142, Number 77 (Thursday, May 30, 1996)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E969]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




       TRIBUTE TO AUGUST G. ERDMANN, CITY OF MILWAUKEE FIRE CHIEF

                                 ______


                         HON. GERALD D. KLECZKA

                              of wisconsin

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, May 30, 1996

  Mr. KLECZKA. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to rise today in tribute to 
August G. Erdmann, fire chief, city of Milwaukee, who will soon retire 
after serving the Department for 32 years, the last seven as chief.
  Chief Erdmann, a life-long resident of Milwaukee, graduated from 
Custer High School and earned an associate degree in fire science from 
the Milwaukee Area Technical College.
  Throughout this distinguished career, Chief Erdmann has served on the 
board of directors of the American Red Cross and the Foundation for the 
Milwaukee Fire Education Center Survive Alive House, the latter which 
strives to educate the public, especially our youth, about fire safety. 
His leadership on the Emergency Planning Committee and the State of 
Wisconsin Hazardous Materials Regional Response Team is to be 
commended. Chief Erdmann also served as the chairperson of the Combined 
Giving Campaign, soliciting contributions to local charities, and has 
provided direction and leadership to make financial resources available 
for the Fallen Fire Fighter Memorial.
  Chief Erdmann's retirement, as you can certainly see by his 
involvement in many projects, will undoubtedly leave a void at the 
Milwaukee Fire Department and in our community as a whole. However, his 
retirement will also now allow him to spend well-deserved time with his 
wife, Nancy, their children, and grandchildren.
  Best wishes, August, and on behalf of the citizens of Milwaukee, whom 
you have protected and served so diligently over your long career, 
thanks for a job well done.

                          ____________________