[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 17 (Tuesday, February 26, 2002)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E195]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


                  TRIBUTE TO FIRE CAPTAIN GLEN VETRANO

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. BILL PASCRELL, JR.

                             of new jersey

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, February 26, 2002

  Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I would like to call to your attention the 
work of an outstanding public servant, Fire Captain Glen Vetrano of the 
Paterson Fire Department, who was recognized on Thursday, October 18, 
2001 for his lifelong commitment to helping others.
  Fire Captain Vetrano was chosen as the Boys and Girls Club of 
Paterson's 2001 Man of the Year. The enduring relationship between Glen 
and the Boys and Girls Club began long ago, when he was only 12 years 
old.
  While enrolled in the old Hawthorne Boys and Girls Club, young Glen 
demonstrated his altruism and leadership by partnering with community 
leaders and parents in building a new, vastly improved facility. Even 
at such a young age, Glen's dedication and ability to lead was 
recognized, as he was named Youth of the Year for his efforts in the 
construction of the new building.
  Glen Vetrano's desire to serve others certainly continued into his 
adult life as he chose a career in public safety. After being appointed 
to the Paterson Fire Department on June 2, 1986, he quickly rose into 
leadership positions, chosen by his peers as president of the 
Firefighters Association from 1992-1996 and as the current president of 
the Fire Officers IAFF Local 3860.
  Mr. Speaker, as a lifelong resident and former Mayor of Paterson, I 
can definitively say that fire Captain Vetrano's capacity for giving is 
second to none. As a member of the Board of the Boys and Girls Club of 
Paterson, Glen has been instrumental in the Club's successful growth 
initiative. Chairing the Marketing Committee and hosting the Club's 
Annual Winter Beefsteak, Glen Vetrano's devotion and steadfast 
leadership have produced countless successes for the Boys and Girls 
Club of Paterson. He has touched countless lives.
  No time of year better illustrates the character of my friend Glen 
Vetrano than the Christmas season. He takes a very special interest in 
aiding those who might otherwise be overlooked during the joyous 
holiday season. Glen has founded the Holiday Dinner for the Clergy. He 
pioneered this dinner to honor those who have devoted themselves to the 
needs of our residents all year long. Of course, Glen is a staple at 
the Boys and Girls Club Holiday Party, assisting Santa and helping 
young people enjoy the Christmas season.
  I consider my friendship with Glen Vetrano a blessing, and believe 
honoring him in this, the permanent record of the greatest democracy 
ever known, is absolutely necessary.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask that you join our colleagues, the Boys and Girls 
Club of Paterson, the City of Paterson, Glen's family and friends, all 
those who have been touched by his altruism, and me in recognizing the 
invaluable service of Fire Captain Glen Vetrano.

                          ____________________