[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 30 (Tuesday, March 11, 1997)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E430]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




              COMMENDING THE LAUREL VOLUNTEER RESCUE SQUAD

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. STENY H. HOYER

                              of maryland

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, March 11, 1997

  Mr. HOYER. Mr. Speaker, it gives me great pleasure to rise today and 
recognize the Laurel Volunteer Rescue Squad as they prepare to 
celebrate their 45th anniversary on March 15 1997. The history of this 
rescue squad dates back to 1952 and is filled with many significant and 
historic accomplishments which makes Laurel home to one of the most 
successful and decorated rescue squads in the Nation.
  Since the first ambulance service and rescue squad was formed in 
1952, the citizens of Laurel have always supported the men and women 
who are on the front lines of public safety every day. Additionally, 
the rescue squad has been at the forefront of teaching and developing 
heavy rescue techniques for the Maryland Fire and Rescue Institute and 
the Prince Georges County Fire Department. However, the hard work and 
dedication of the rescue squad has been felt well beyond the town 
limits of Laurel. They have provided emergency care for five Presidents 
at their inaugural ceremonies and administered emergency care to 
Alabama Governor George Wallace after the attempted assassination in 
Laurel in 1972. They were also first on the scene when my good friend, 
Congresswoman Gladys Noon Spellman, fell ill.
  Mr. Speaker, one of the greatest legacies of the Laurel Volunteer 
Rescue Squad has been its accomplishments in the international first 
aid competition arena. Dating back to 1965, both the men and women's 
teams have captured the world championship in first aid and rescue 
competition on several occasions. Last year, they surpassed all 
expectations, winning an unprecedented first and second place in the 
emergency medical technician competition.
  Mr. Speaker, from the beginning, this rescue squad has excelled. They 
have seen a steady increase in membership, responsibility, and 
expertise and it is my honor to be able to recognize their many 
accomplishments as they celebrate their 45th anniversary. I commend the 
over 250 members of the Laurel Rescue Squad who embody the dedication 
and commitment that defines volunteer service.
  John F. Kennedy once described the essence of public service as the 
following: ``The energy, the faith, the devotion which we bring to this 
endeavor will light our country and all who serve it, and the glow from 
that fire can truly light the world.'' I can think of no organization 
which embodies the values of public service and volunteerism, and which 
lights our country every day, more than the Laurel Volunteer Rescue 
Squad.
  Mr. Speaker, it gives me great pleasure to rise today to congratulate 
the Laurel Rescue Squad on this great achievement and to wish them 
continued success as they serve our community and our State for many 
years to come.

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