[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 140 (Tuesday, October 7, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1979]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




   CONGRATULATING THE PHILIPS FAMILY FOR 268 YEARS OF VOLUNTEER FIRE 
                                SERVICE

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. PAUL E. KANJORSKI

                            of pennsylvania

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, October 7, 2003

  Mr. KANJORSKI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Philips 
family of Stroudsburg for a combined 268 years of service to the 
Phoenix Fire Company No. 2 of the Stroudsburg Fire Company in Monroe 
County PA. I ask that my colleagues pay tribute this amazing legacy of 
service and dedication as this family is honored by the Borough of 
Stroudsburg Council at its meeting on Wednesday, October 15.
  Mr. Speaker, I have the great fortune of representing a family that 
has over the years dedicated their lives in volunteer service to 
Stroudsburg and the surrounding communities as members of the Phoenix 
Fire Company. Herman F. Philips, Lloyd F. Marsh, and Thomas Philips 
served all their lives and were members until they passed away. Robert 
W. Philips, Sr., Robert W. Philips, Jr., Richard Philips, and Millard 
``Skip'' Philips all currently serve in the department. The Philips 
family firefighters have also risen to leadership positions within the 
department. Skip and Thomas were both assistant chiefs and chiefs, and 
Robert, Sr. was chief twice.
  Their service to both the community and the fire department is 
remarkable. Equally amazing is the number of volunteer firefighters 
from one family. However, their longevity in the department is also 
noteworthy. Robert, Jr., is currently the least experienced volunteer 
firefighter of the Philips family with only 32 years of service. 
Robert, Sr., and Richard both have over 50 years while Skip is 
approaching 50 years.
  Firefighters play a critical role in protecting our communities 
throughout northeastern Pennsylvania. Volunteer firefighters not only 
faithfully conduct their duties in the fire department, they also are 
community leaders and volunteer for other activities. The Philips 
family is no exception. They are pillars of the Stroudsburg community 
and deserve recognition for their remarkable service over several 
decades.
  Mr. Speaker, it is a privilege and honor to represent this family 
that has played such an impressive vital role in their community and in 
voluntarily serving others.

                          ____________________