[Congressional Record Volume 153, Number 87 (Friday, May 25, 2007)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1163]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




    CONGRATULATING SWEDESBERG VOLUNTEER FIRE COMPANY ON THEIR 65TH 
                              ANNIVERSARY

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. JOE SESTAK

                            of pennsylvania

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, May 24, 2007

  Mr. SESTAK. Madam Speaker, I rise to congratulate the Swedesburg 
Volunteer Fire Company, located in Upper Merion, Pennsylvania on their 
65th anniversary.
  Established in 1942 as a civilian defense in the face of World War 
II, the Swedesburg Volunteer Fire Company has become an essential and 
respected service institution in my district, providing unrivaled 
emergency response and civic services. Its first engine, a Hale-Ford 
500 GPM pumper was purchased for just $5,000. Today a comparable truck 
would cost around $400,000.
  Over the course of the past 65 years we have seen a distinct 
evolution in the Swedesburg Volunteer Fire Company, but one thing has 
remained contant--the Company's volunteers have been steadfast in their 
service and dedication to the community.
  As we look back on the past 65 years, there are some important dates 
to note:
  May 11, 1942: Swedesburg Volunteer Fire Company is incorporated by 
Montgomery County. Its first meetings are in Michael Brodowski's Tavern 
and Stanley Knaisiak's barbershop.
  1946: Swedesburg's Ladies Auxiliary is established by company 
president, Bernard S. Gutkowski, Sr.
  1951: Swedesburg Volunteer Fire Company's original fire house is 
built on Church Road thanks to generous contributions from James Lees & 
Sons, among many others.
  1953: The development of the PA Turnpike Delaware River Extension 
charges right through Swedesburg's back yard and the firehouse, along 
with 32 homes, are razed for its development.
  1954: Volunteers and the community rally to construct the present-day 
firehouse on Jefferson Street.
  1960s: The Junior Fireman's Corps is established for volunteers 
between the ages of 17 and 21.
  1975: The Company establishes a Vehicle Rescue Unit with its first 
``Jaws of Life''.
  1983: Swedesburg is among the first companies in Pennsylvania to be 
certified in vehicle rescue.
  1986: Swedesburg establishes its water rescue team with the purchase 
of its first boat and hours of training for 30 personnel.
  1991: An addition to the existing firehouse is completed, with a 
larger engine room and improved radio room, a new meeting room and 
offices.
  One of the greatest services in my district comes from first 
responders who are on the frontlines protecting us. They are required 
to balance the demands of their service with their families and full-
time careers. I ask that everyone please join me in congratulating the 
Swedesburg Volunteer Fire Company and all of the men and women that 
have helped serve their community over the past 65 years.

                          ____________________