[Congressional Record Volume 144, Number 31 (Thursday, March 19, 1998)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E428]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                 TRIBUTE TO GAINESVILLE FIRE DEPARTMENT

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. RALPH M. HALL

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, March 19, 1998

  Mr. HALL of Texas. Mr. Speaker, in December of 1997 I had the honor 
of speaking to the Gainesville Fire Department at their annual 
Christmas banquet. Since that time, I have visited informally with 
Steve R. Boone, the highly regarded Fire Chief of the Gainesville Fire 
Department, Capt. Wally Cox, Training Officer, and Lt. David Tharp, 
Fire Safety Education Officer. I am impressed by their dedication and 
commitment to public service.
  One of the main goals of the Gainesville Fire Department is to 
provide educational programs on fire safety. The Department 
accomplishes this by presenting programs in the local school systems as 
well as community events, sponsoring industrial training sessions, and 
making presentations to civic clubs. Ninety percent of their funding 
for fire safety education is received through donations from the 
community--evidence of the support that the Department receives from 
local citizens.
  The Gainesville Fire Department has chosen to take a proactive 
approach to fire prevention and safety, rather than just a reactive 
one. Their efforts undoubtedly will help save lives and property. In 
the past, the Gainesville Fire Department has been recognized for their 
efforts by local groups, the International Association of Fire Chiefs, 
insurance companies, and other entities. Senator Phil Gramm also has 
recognized their commitment to serving the citizens of Cooke County.
  Mr. Speaker, too often we take for granted the efforts of those who 
place their own lives at risk for their fellow citizens. I ask my 
colleagues to join me today in paying tribute to an outstanding group 
of public servants--the Gainesville Fire Department--and to other 
firemen across our great nation whose dedication to the prevention of 
fires and injuries deserves our gratitude and respect.

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