[Congressional Record Volume 146, Number 4 (Thursday, January 27, 2000)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E21]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       HONORING MICHAEL F. MARKO

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. LOIS CAPPS

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, January 27, 2000

  Mrs. CAPPS. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to bring to the attention of my 
colleagues a firefighting legend, Michael F. Marko, who was honored by 
family and friends on January 4 as he celebrated his retirement as 
assistant fire chief for the 30th Space Wing that is located in my 
congressional district.
  Michael Marko faithfully served the 30th Space Wing for 33 years. He 
participated in and commanded the safe mitigation of more than 12,800 
fire emergencies during his years of service. Michael has also been an 
integral member of the Vandenberg Professional Firefighters Local F-116 
since 1971 and has been instrumental in working for the rights union 
members now enjoy. In honor of his many years of service to the union, 
Michael was awarded by his colleagues a lifetime membership. Through 
his actions, he saved numerous lives and billions of dollars in Defense 
Department assets. Michael also personally supervised the launch of 
countless Delta, Titan, and Peacekeeping rockets, enhancing America's 
national security. We have Michael Marko to thank for ensuring a 
permanent American presence in space that will continue to grow in this 
new century.
  Mr. Speaker, as impressive as any complete accounting of Michael's 
accomplishments would be, it would not do justice to the long lasting 
and immeasurable contributions he has made to the 30th Space Wing. I am 
truly honored to represent Mr. Marko in Washington. I send my most 
heartfelt appreciation on behalf of the 30th Space Wing, the community 
of Vandenberg, and the people of Santa Barbara County for his hard work 
and dedicated service. I know that Michael's leadership will be missed 
by the 30th Space Wing of Santa Barbara County.

                          ____________________