[Congressional Record Volume 142, Number 106 (Thursday, July 18, 1996)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1317]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




        THE 100TH ANNIVERSARY OF DEEP RIVER, CT FIRE DEPARTMENT

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                           HON. SAM GEJDENSON

                             of connecticut

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, July 18, 1996

  Mr. GEJDENSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 100th 
anniversary of the Deep River, CT fire department which serves the 
community of Deep River with selflessness, energy, and commitment each 
and every day.
  The first organizational meeting of the Deep River fire department 
was held in March 1896. Since that time, the department has grown to 
its present size of nearly 40 persons, receives over 200 calls each 
year, and has at its disposal a fleet of four pumper trucks, one 
emergency truck, one brush truck, and one fire boat. The Deep River 
fire department has also expanded to two stations which serve the local 
community: The fire department headquarters at the center of Deep River 
and a smaller station in the Winthrop section of town.
  The Deep River fire department has served the community faithfully, 
often demonstrating real ingenuity in its work to keep the community 
safe. In Deep River, CT, Mr. Speaker, the only fire hydrants are 
located in town. The department, though, serves not only the town, but 
many rural areas as well. In those rural areas, using vast amounts of 
fire hose, the department employs a combination of skill and 
improvisation to obtain water from nearby streams and ponds, offering 
rural residents the same level of emergency service as is enjoyed by 
those who reside in town.
  On September 29 of this year, the Deep River fire department will 
continue the celebration of its 100th anniversary with a community 
parade. At this parade, the national flag fire truck will make its way 
to Deep River, a further honor to this most deserving department.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask that Members of the House of Representatives join 
me today in recognizing the accomplishments and achievements of the 
Deep River fire department on its 100th anniversary, and offering our 
best wishes for another 100 years of distinguished service and generous 
sacrifice.

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