[Congressional Record Volume 145, Number 132 (Monday, October 4, 1999)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2020]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 HONORING THE BRANFORD FIRE DEPARTMENT AND M.P. RICE HOSE COMPANY 2 ON 
                        THEIR 100TH ANNIVERSARY

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. ROSA L. DeLAURO

                             of connecticut

                    in the house of representatives

                        Monday, October 4, 1999

  Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker, it is a great honor for me to rise today to 
congratulate the Branford Fire Department and M.P. rice Hose Company 2 
for one hundred years of dedicated service to the residents of 
Branford, Connecticut. M.P. Rice Hose Company 2 is the only entirely 
volunteer company which has remained active since the Branford Fire 
Department was established in 1899.
  When it was first established, the Branford Fire Department was 
composed of citizens volunteering to protect their friends and 
neighbors from the threat of fire. With two hand drawn hose carriages 
and a horse drawn ladder truck, three fire fighting companies, Hose 
Company 1, House Company 2, and the Martin Burke Hook and Ladder 
company emerged. Today, the M.P. Rice House Company 2 continues in this 
strong tradition, a full century later, as the only remaining company 
which is completely comprise of volunteers. Working with career members 
of the Branford Fire Department, the volunteer companies provide 
residents with the very best in fire protection. As volunteers, the 
members of the M.P. Rice Hose company work arm and arm with our 
professionals, representing a commitment to the community that if taken 
up more broadly would make for stronger towns across America.
  As the Branford community gathers today to celebrate this wonderful 
achievement, I would like to take this opportunity to thank all of 
those who have dedicated not only their time, but their lives, to the 
safety of all Branford residents. Firefighters face risks that many of 
us can never truly comprehend. Each day they must be able to perform 
under intense pressure--literally in life or death situations. Few 
things are more important than feeling safe in our homes and 
workplaces. Whether hosing down flames, rescuing a child from a burning 
house, or waiting for our call, firefighters are always there to 
protect us and provide us with the peace of mind we need to sleep at 
night. I am proud to recognize and commend the tremendous commitment 
they have made to our community. Our thanks and appreciation can never 
repay those who put their lives on the line to ensure our safety.
  Today's celebration marks the 100th Anniversary of the Branford Fire 
Department. The courage and dedication demonstrated each day by these 
men and women, whether volunteer or career member, is reflective of the 
true spirit in which the department was established. I am indeed proud 
to rise today to extend my thanks for what you do each day, and 
congratulations on this remarkable accomplishment.




                          ____________________