[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 65 (Monday, May 5, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E864]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




         HONORING CHIEF EDWARD L. STINNETTE UPON HIS RETIREMENT

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. TOM DAVIS

                              of virginia

                    in the house of representatives

                          Monday, May 5, 2003

  Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this 
opportunity to pay tribute to Chief Edward L. Stinnette upon his 
retirement as Fire Chief of the Fairfax County Fire and Rescue 
Department after 30 years of distinguished and dedicated service to the 
Department.
  Chief Stinnette first joined the Fairfax County Fire and Rescue 
Department in January 1973 as a firefighter. From 1973 through 1985, he 
gained a great deal of operational experience within the Department as 
a company officer. He also did tours as a shift commander, recruit 
school coordinator, and station coordinator. Chief Stinnette was 
promoted to Lead Battalion Chief in 1985, and 2 years later was named 
Deputy Fire Chief.
  Starting in March of 1992, Chief Stinnette became responsible for the 
daily operations of the department as Assistant Chief of Operations. He 
also served as the leader of the Virginia Task Force One when it was 
deployed to Oklahoma City, following the bombing of the Alfred P. 
Murrah Building. Initially appointed as Active Fire Chief December 7, 
1998, he was appointed to Fire Chief on April 19, 1999.
  As Fire Chief, he has been responsible for over 1,400 uniformed and 
civilian employees, hundreds of volunteers, and a budget of $112 
million. Chief Stinnette is a member of the International Association 
of Fire Chiefs and the State Fire Chiefs Association of Virginia. His 
strong leadership skills and devotion to serving the community will be 
missed.
  Mr. Speaker, in closing, I wish the very best to Edward Stinnette as 
he is recognized for his years of service to the Fairfax County Fire 
and Rescue Department. During his 30 years of service, he certainly has 
earned his recognition, and I call upon all of my colleagues to join me 
in applauding his tenure.

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