[Congressional Record Volume 150, Number 77 (Friday, June 4, 2004)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1042]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




HONORING THE 100TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE FORTUNA VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT

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                           HON. MIKE THOMPSON

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, June 3, 2004

  Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition 
of the 100th anniversary of the Fortuna Volunteer Fire Department in 
Humboldt County, California.
  The members of the Fortuna Volunteer Fire Department, organized on 
June 20, 1904, are dedicated to the protection and preservation of life 
and property when threatened by the perils of fire.
  In 1932 the Fire Department became a fire protection district to 
better serve the people of this spectacular part of the Redwood Empire. 
In 1957 the district expanded its services with the addition of a 
second fire station in Hydesville. In 1967 a third fire station was 
formed in Campton Heights. A new main station was opened in Fortuna in 
1998.
  The Fortuna Volunteer Fire Department currently consists of a force 
of 68 people at three fire stations covering 26 square miles and 
protecting a population of more than 20,000 people. Each member 
completes a minimum of 156 hours of training.
  The members of the Fortuna Volunteer Fire Department provide fire 
prevention, education for students in local schools and residents of 
senior care homes. The volunteers maintain an on-going disaster 
preparedness program and serve the community with fire prevention 
inspections of new construction, day care facilities, senior care 
facilities and schools. In addition, members hold scholarship 
fundraisers, take part in Christmas programs serving needy families and 
handicapped children.
  The Fortuna Volunteer Fire Department is a vital part of the life of 
our Eel River Valley community.
  Mr. Speaker, it is appropriate at this time that we recognize the 
Fortuna Volunteer Fire Department on the occasion of its 100th 
anniversary.

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