[Congressional Record Volume 145, Number 32 (Tuesday, March 2, 1999)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E305]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   HONORING FIRE MARSHAL J.J. PRUITT

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. GENE GREEN

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, March 2, 1999

  Mr. GREEN of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I ask all of my colleagues in 
Congress to join me in paying tribute to an outstanding individual, 
Fire Marshal J.J. Pruitt. J.J. will retire after nearly a half-century 
of fighting and investigating fires.
  J.J. began his career in 1950 when he entered the Houston Fire 
Department. He soon distinguished himself among his colleagues and all 
who encountered him through his selflessness, courage, and quick 
thinking in the most serious of circumstances.
  J.J.'s years of distinguished service lead him to a position of 
responsibility and leadership at the head of Harris County's Fire 
Marshal's Office. As Marshal, J.J. oversaw a $1.3 million annual 
budget, seventeen employees, and 29 full-time volunteer departments. He 
led his office in planning and coordination of fire prevention and 
control services in the unincorporated areas of Harris County and 
investigated arson.
  J.J.'s decision to retire is definitely a blow to the Harris County 
community. His almost fifty years of dedicated service will leave a 
legacy for future fire marshals. Those people who have had the 
opportunity to work with J.J. are very fortunate to have benefitted 
from his leadership and courageous devotion to saving lives.
  Mr. Speaker, please join me in thanking Fire Marshal J.J. Pruitt for 
his service to Harris County. Those of us who know J.J. are truly 
grateful for his leadership and wish him well in all his future 
endeavors.

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