[Congressional Record Volume 145, Number 94 (Tuesday, June 29, 1999)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1417-E1418]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




             IN HONOR OF THE LATE CAPTAIN VINCENT G. FOWLER

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. MICHAEL P. FORBES

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, June 29, 1999

  Mr. FORBES. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor one of New York's 
bravest, a valiant and a true hero, Captain Vincent G. Fowler, a 21-
year veteran of the New York City Fire Department who was recently 
killed in the line of duty at the age of 47.
  Ask any member of the Community and I am sure they will agree that 
firefighters are

[[Page E1418]]

truly courageous individuals. But there are those within the profession 
whose level of commitment challenges even that standard. Captain Fowler 
was one of these individuals.
  Today, and every day, firefighters risk injury and death for the 
welfare of the community. It takes the tireless efforts of valiant men 
like Vincent Fowler to avert tragedy. Like many firefighters in our 
communities, Fowler understood the power of teamwork and its capability 
to save lives. His fearless leadership is a shining example to all of 
us.
  During the course of his career, Vincent Fowler received three 
commendations for bravery, and had recently been appointed to the 
position of captain.
  Fowler was a Holbrook, Long Island, Native, Captain Vincent Fowler 
was surrounded by loved ones who know all too well the dangers lurking 
at fire scenes. His father, also named Vincent, is a retired battalion 
chief, and his two brothers are also city firefighters. His family has 
dedicated itself to serving New York in one of the most dangerous jobs 
one can imagine. Consequently, the notion of a career in firefighting 
seemed natural for Vincent.
  Mr. Speaker, Fowler embodies the type of role model who, as a leader, 
did not hesitate to put the safety of his team members above his own. 
He was in the basement of a burning house tying to determine where the 
blaze started when part of the first floor collapsed. He was severely 
injured, but orders his team to get out, knowing his fate had been 
sealed.
  Colleagues, Captain Fowler is a courageous leader who will be sorely 
missed.

                          ____________________