[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 43 (Wednesday, March 11, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E635]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    SUPPORTING ARKANSAS FIREFIGHTERS

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. JOHN BOOZMAN

                              of arkansas

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, March 11, 2009

  Mr. BOOZMAN. Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of America's 
firefighters.
  Not a day goes by that I don't read or hear a story of the dangers 
and sacrifices our firefighters face to protect us. We are so blessed 
to have such great men and women who are dedicated to ensuring our 
safety.
  The work that they do in our communities is an important job that 
requires our commitment to help provide funds for resources and 
training that enables them to perform their jobs as best as they can. I 
have been proud to support Arkansas's firefighters in the past by 
helping to secure grant funding and that work will continue.
  Last year when the barracks at Fort Chaffee caught fire, our 
firefighters braved high winds to contain the fire and protect our 
communities. That blaze required the help of numerous firefighters 
including men and women who volunteer their time to help keep us out of 
harm's way.
  According to the National Volunteer Fire Council, the biggest 
challenges facing volunteer fire departments and emergency services are 
retention and recruitment. We can help ease those hurdles with new 
legislation that offers incentives to those who are at the forefront of 
fires. The Volunteer Firefighter Recruitment and Retention Act and the 
Volunteer Firefighter/EMS Gas Price Relief Act show our appreciation 
for the work that is imperative to protecting our rural communities.
  Firefighters put their lives on the line for their fellow citizens, 
and my appreciation for these Americans who help protect us is 
immeasurable. I urge the House Committee on Ways and Means to consider 
these bills, and for Congress to offer more support to all of the men 
and women who serve our communities with such valor.

                          ____________________