[Congressional Record Volume 142, Number 124 (Wednesday, September 11, 1996)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1564]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       TRIBUTE TO GEORGE SWEENEY

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. ROSA L. DeLAURO

                             of connecticut

                    in the house of representatives

                     Wednesday, September 11, 1996

  Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker, on Thursday, September 12, 1996, George 
Sweeney will be honored with a retirement dinner. George has served the 
New Haven Fire Department for more than 39 years.
  George's career with the New Haven Fire Department began in 1957 when 
he was assigned to Engine Company 4 at the Central Station. He served 
in this capacity until January 26, 1977 when he was promoted to 
lieutenant. While he was with Engine Company 4, he was commended by the 
board of fire commissioners for his actions at a four alarm fire at the 
Yale Art & Architecture Building on June 14, 1969. In the following 
years, George served with a number of companies including Hook and 
Ladder Company 3, Lombard Station, Engine Company 7, Lombard Station, 
Engine Company 10, Lombard Station, Engine Company 15, Fountain 
Station, Hook and Ladder Company 5, Fountain Station. In 1991 he became 
the acting supervisor of records and operations at the Motor Apparatus 
and Building Maintenance Division.
  Firefighting is a career which demands incredible dedication, courage 
and bravery, and a deep commitment to helping others. Firefighters are 
public servants in the truest sense. They risk their lives every day to 
protect citizens. During his tenure with the New Haven Fire Department, 
George was awarded a meritorious citation for his part in a heroic 
attempt to rescue two children from the second floor of a three story 
building. George's actions speak to his immeasurable sense of 
responsibility for the citizens of New Haven. George is also the 
recipient of three unit citations. He has been honored by the 
Connecticut State Fireman's Association in 1992 in recognition of 35 
years of service and he was named Firefighter of the Year in 1995 by 
the New Haven Block Watch Association.
  George Sweeney has devoted himself and his life to a career as a 
firefighter for the city of New Haven. For over 39 years George has 
served the people of the city. In that time he has truly made a 
difference in people's lives, in some cases his efforts have meant the 
difference between life and death. I am proud to join George's family, 
friends and colleagues as they honor him on his retirement. He deserves 
our deepest thanks and appreciation.

                          ____________________