[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 15 (Friday, February 15, 2002)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E174]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




   RECOGNITION FOR THE FIRST AFRICAN-AMERICAN FIREFIGHTER, CLARENCE 
                            ``GATOR'' JONES

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. ALCEE L. HASTINGS

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, February 14, 2002

  Mr. HASTINGS of Florida. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to congratulate 
the service of Clarence ``Gator'' Jones on recently being honored as 
Dania Beach, Florida's first African-American firefighter. Mr. Jones 
became the first African-American firefighter in Dania Beach in 1975 
and continued to serve this city for more than two decades. Of course, 
serving as Dania's first African-American firefighter was no easy task. 
During his tenure, Clarence Jones braved a burden that few would accept 
and less would bear. A bitter sweet burden of disparities and 
degradation, while simultaneously becoming a trailblazer in his craft, 
establishing the standard for all firefighters to follow.
  While serving the city of Dania Beach, Mr. Jones received many 
accolades, some of which include a Medal of Honor and the prestigious 
Firefighter of the Year Award. Mr. Jones was also recognized for the 
care and compassion he exhibited when performing rescue calls, working 
above and beyond the call of duty, and participating in charitable 
activities. I am sure that when Mr. Jones became a firefighter at the 
age of 21, he simply saw this as a way to sustain his livelihood after 
serving in the Navy during the Vietnam War. Not realizing that by doing 
this, he did so much more, he saved lives. He became a hero.
  Most people take for granted those brave few that walk amongst us. 
The brave few that put concern for others before themselves. It is 
these few people that we must honor and celebrate for they are the ones 
that truly make the difference. Therefore, Mr. Speaker, I would like to 
extend my appreciation and respect for Clarence Jones' commitment to 
the community of Dania Beach, FL. Mr. Jones has served the noble 
profession of fire rescue for 26 years. Twenty-six years of fortitude 
and selfless sacrifice that the Dania Beach community and I will always 
remember.

                          ____________________