[Congressional Record Volume 154, Number 176 (Wednesday, November 19, 2008)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2267]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




     RECOGNIZING HOWARD JAMES STRICKLER OF LAKE COUNTY, CALIFORNIA

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. MIKE THOMPSON

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, November 19, 2008

  Mr. THOMPSON of California. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize 
Chief Howard Strickler on the occasion of his retirement from the 
Kelseyville Fire Protection District of Lake County, California after 
32 years of service, 28 of them as Fire Chief. Chief Strickler's 
leadership will be truly missed by his colleagues and the people of 
Lake County.
  Chief Strickler is a native son, graduating from Kelseyville High 
School in 1967. His career in public service began in the U.S. Army, 
where he served from 1970-1973. After his discharge, he worked with the 
White House Communications Agency before coming home and joining the 
Fire Protection District.
  Chief Strickler has lived in Kelseyville for 47 years and has done 
more than perhaps anyone else over that time to keep Lake County 
residents safe. During his tenure he was instrumental in the 
implementation of the county's first paramedic program as well the 
first countywide Hazardous Materials Response Team. He also helped 
develop a 911 First Responder Agreement that is now used by all fire 
departments, EMS and law enforcement agencies in the county.
  Chief Strickler has earned the undying admiration of all who have 
worked for him and with him. To a person, they describe Chief Strickler 
as the consummate leader, someone who instills confidence in everyone 
around him and whose compassion and love for the community shines 
through. He is a family man whose quiet sense of humor and listening 
skills always made his employees feel comfortable and at home. He will 
be missed a great deal.
  Madam Speaker, it is my distinct pleasure to recognize Chief Howard 
Strickler for his many years of service to Kelseyville and all of Lake 
County, California, and to thank him for his many contributions on 
behalf of our country and his community. I join his wife, Debbie, his 
two children, and five grandchildren in wishing him the best as he 
enters this new phase of his life.

                          ____________________