[Congressional Record Volume 154, Number 105 (Tuesday, June 24, 2008)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1329]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                          HONORING RONNIE HEEP

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. RON LEWIS

                              of kentucky

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, June 24, 2008

  Mr. LEWIS of Kentucky. Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to 
a remarkable citizen from my congressional district. Ronnie Heep, Chief 
of the Owensboro Fire Department, is retiring next month after 30 years 
of service.
  Chief Heep first joined the Owensboro Fire Department in 1978, 
following in the footsteps of his father, Stewart, who himself served 
for 32 years. Ronnie steadily rose through the ranks, becoming a 
serious firefighter and public servant, culminating with his 
appointment as Chief in 2004.
  As Chief, he has been responsible for training and managing a diverse 
crew of firefighters, purchasing and maintaining fire apparatus, and 
developing policies designed to help the department run as efficiently 
and safely as possible. He has been personally responsible for 
countless acts of heroism throughout his three decades as a firefighter 
and a medical first responder. His collective efforts have saved lives, 
protected property, and contributed to the overall safety and comfort 
enjoyed by those who live and work in Owensboro, KY.
  It is my great privilege to honor Ronnie Heep today before the entire 
United States House of Representatives. His distinguished career, along 
with his unwavering dedication to his family and fellow firefighters, 
is a portrait of outstanding citizenship worthy of our collective 
respect and appreciation.

                          ____________________