[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 44 (Thursday, April 18, 2002)]
[Senate]
[Page S2945]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                TRIBUTE TO THE PEMBROKE FIRE DEPARTMENT

  Mr. SMITH of New Hampshire. Mr. President, today I show my 
support for the Pembroke Fire Department, including Deputy Chief Paul 
Gagnon; Lieutenants Rob Farley, David Bouffard and Brian Lemoine; 
Firefighters Patrick Maccini, Ricky Bilodeau, Jeff Bokum, Stacy Amyot, 
Josh Ginn, Mike Perron, Steve Perron and Eric Stromvall; and Engineers 
Brad Robertson, Chet Martel, Chuck Schmidt and Steve Ludwick. Their 
heroic actions saved numerous lives and helped preserve one of New 
Hampshire's historical landmarks. They placed their own lives at risk 
to protect and serve the people of New Hampshire.
  On an early morning in July of 2001, the Pembroke Fire Department 
received what appeared to be a routine call. They learned that a 
historic Bed and Breakfast was in flames and worked tirelessly to 
extinguish the flames of the burning building.
  Upon learning that guests were trapped in the residence, the 
firefighters successfully made several rescues. Leading six victims 
down their ladders, they brought them to safety. The firefighters 
further risked their lives to perform room-by-room searches to confirm 
that everybody was out of the building safely.
  These firefighters work valorously everyday. Each time they respond 
to a call for help, they are putting their own lives in jeopardy. This 
is just one example of the hard work and dedication of New Hampshire's 
firefighters. By consistently operating above and beyond the call of 
duty, these men and women save the lives of fellow citizens and bring 
comfort to the community.
  I commend the selfless acts of the Pembroke Fire Department. It takes 
courage to place somebody else's life above one's own. I am confident 
that as long as we have firefighters like those in Pembroke our Nation 
will continue to remain protected. New Hampshire is proud to have such 
dedicated citizens and it is an honor to represent you in the U.S. 
Senate.

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