[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 137 (Thursday, October 17, 2002)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1937]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      TRIBUTE TO MR. RICHARD CLARK

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. JOHN E. SWEENEY

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, October 17, 2002

  Mr. SWEENEY. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to 
honor a constituent of the 22nd District of New York--a man who 
epitomizes the spirit of this great Nation, Mr. Richard Clark of 
Ticonderoga, New York. In March of 1952, Mr. Clark joined the 
Ticonderoga Fire Department by enrolling in the Defiance Hook and 
Ladder Co. #1. He has served his community continually since then, and 
throughout his half century of service, Mr. Clark has served the Fire 
Department as a Trustee, Caretaker, Warden, Assistant Foreman, Vice-
President and Assistant Chief.
  Mr. Speaker, Mr. Clark's selfless dedication to Ticonderoga and 
neighboring communities embodies the true spirit of an American hero. 
As the result of the September 11th attacks, firefighters have finally 
received the attention and admiration they have so long deserved. 
Firefighters put their lives in harm's way with every call, everyday. 
Some do this because it is their chosen profession as a paid 
firefighter, others do it as volunteers to assist those in their 
communities. Risking one's life for the sake of helping others is 
extremely admirable--to do so without compensation or reward for over 
50 years is truly amazing.
  Mr. Clark is a true volunteer. He is always willing to assist in 
training new members, conduct the Fire Company Fund Raisers and assist 
in the day-to-day operations of the Fire Company. His ability to safely 
operate the fire apparatus is unparalleled and he is often called on to 
assist the new driver trainees.
  Mr. Speaker, the actions of Firefighter Richard Clark deserve to be 
recognized. I truly believe that the amount of service one dedicates to 
his community is a true measurement of one's character. Fifty years of 
continuous service to the community of Ticonderoga surely speaks 
volumes about the character of Mr. Richard Clark. I ask my colleagues, 
along with the 22nd District of New York, to join me as I thank Mr. 
Clark and for his continued service and contribution to the community.

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