[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 131 (Tuesday, September 23, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1860]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




    TRIBUTE TO THE GERMANIA HOSE COMPANY ON THEIR 100TH ANNIVERSARY

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. PAUL E. KANJORSKI

                            of pennsylvania

                    in the house of representatives

                      Tuesday, September 23, 2003

  Mr. KANJORSKI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to call the attention of the 
House of Representatives to the Germania Hose Company in Duryea, 
Pennsylvania as it celebrates its 100th anniversary this Saturday, 
September 27, 2003.
  Germania Hose Company was incorporated in 1903. As this company of 
volunteer firefighters approaches its centennial celebration, it 
continues to provide their community with the highest quality of 
service and protection. This all-volunteer company prides itself on a 
staff of over 60 members both active and retired. With approximately 35 
active firefighters and fire police ranging from the age of 18-70, the 
Germaine Hose Company repeatedly holds successful annual fundraisers 
such as picnics and pancake breakfasts to help subsidize costs.
  On this upcoming milestone for this fire department, I would like to 
recognize some of firefighters the Germania Hose Company considers its 
founding fathers. Paul Komenski, George Orenich, Henery Lewandowski, 
Charles Bartlow, Jim Steer, Mike Kosik, Ed Slatky and Ed Murzinski. 
Their founding fathers both living and deceased provided the initial 
training and support that has continued their reputation of tradition 
and excellence to the community.
  Heading this volunteer fire company is Fire Chief, Mike Shovlin. 
Under his guidance and assistance, members of the fire company respond 
to more than 200 calls per year that range from structure to grass 
fires. They also run Mutual Aid assists to neighboring towns. In 
addition to fire fighting they also have a Scuba Search and Rescue Team 
that consist of 8 certified divers and the latest state of the art 
search and rescue equipment.
  On their upcoming day of celebration, I would like to remind all 
House Members of the critical role firefighters and rescue personnel 
play in protecting our families and communities. Their profession, a 
dangerous and volunteer service, provides the people of Northeastern 
Pennsylvania the safety and security that so many take for granted.
  Mr. Speaker, on their 100th anniversary, I pay tribute to both the 
effort and positive impact that the Germania Hose Company, Fire Chief 
Mike Shovlin and all the volunteer firefighters have on their community 
in Duryea and all of Northeastern Pennsylvania.

                          ____________________