[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 130 (Thursday, September 25, 1997)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1852]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




SIXTY YEARS OF SERVICE: THE LADIES' AUXILIARY OF THE DELAWARE VOLUNTEER 
                         FIREMEN'S ASSOCIATION

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. MICHAEL N. CASTLE

                              of delaware

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, September 25, 1997

  Mr. CASTLE. Mr. Speaker, I rise to salute and pay tribute to an 
outstanding and caring volunteer association in the State of Delaware. 
The Ladies Auxiliary of the Delaware Volunteer Firemen's Association.
  This weekend, the ladies auxiliary will celebrate its 60th year of 
service to the citizens of the First State. Their history of 
volunteerism began on September 9, 1937, when the first president, Nan 
Laws Woods of the Five Points Fire Co. Ladies Auxiliary, struck the 
first gavel establishing the ladies' auxiliary of the Delaware 
Volunteer Firemen's Association. The auxiliary encompassed many of the 
fire companies in Delaware and pledged their combined efforts to help 
the firemen of Delaware as well as those whose homes had been damaged 
by fire. Organized efforts included contributions to burn centers, 
food, and clothing to burn victims as well as financial support.
  During the war years, the auxiliary assisted the Red Cross by sending 
Christmas packages to soldiers. The members also encouraged the 
purchase of war bonds. Returning to peacetime, the auxiliary focused on 
fund raising efforts to assist local fire companies. Throughout their 
years of service, tired firefighters have come to rely on the meals and 
beverages served by the auxiliary during fires and emergencies. When 
the gavel falls to open the 60th annual meeting in Rehoboth Beach, it 
is fitting that Mrs. Barbara Lewis, the current president will preside. 
President Lewis is also from the Five Points Fire Co., the home of the 
Mrs. Nan Woods.
  I offer my congratulations not only as a Member of the House of 
Representatives but as a former Governor who appreciates the 
leadership, teamwork and commitment of this association in their 
service to the people of Delaware. I wish them many more years of 
success in their endeavors as they continue to assist volunteer fire 
and emergency services throughout Delaware.

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