[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 102 (Wednesday, July 24, 2002)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1329]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                 BURNHAM FILE COMPANY 100TH ANNIVERSARY

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                           HON. BILL SHUSTER

                            of pennsylvania

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, July 23, 2002

  Mr. SHUSTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Burnham 
Fire Company for their 100th Anniversary and to thank them for their 
service and dedication to their community.
  The Burnham Fire Company was started in September 1902 due to an 
overwhelming need for fire protection in their community. Until this 
time, the community relied on nearby cities whose fire departments 
could not respond as rapidly as needed due to the distance they had to 
travel. The company in Burnham was assembled of volunteers, a hand 
pulled hose cart, and a motto that described with incredible foresight 
what personal sacrifices must be made to be fire fighters. That motto 
is ``Semper Puratus,'' which means ``Always Ready.''
  Since the tragedy that befell this nation on September 11th, America 
has rediscovered her many heros. Heros come from all walks of life and 
display every day how they, like the Burnham Fire Company, follow the 
motto ``Semper Puratus.'' They are the men and women that are always 
ready to put themselves at risk for the greater good of others. 
Volunteers who are always ready to unselfishly give of their time to 
serve their communities. Individuals who are always ready to contribute 
to the success of the team rather than striving for personal glory.
  Burnham Fire Company still largely consists of a volunteer work 
force. These men and women are well trained and equipped, providing 
exceptional service to a community that is proud of thejob they have 
been doing for the past 100 years. I would like to again congratulate 
them on their 100th Anniversary and thank them for all their hard work 
and service.

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