[Congressional Record Volume 157, Number 44 (Wednesday, March 30, 2011)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E567]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




   RECOGNIZING FIREFIGHTER JIM RITCHIE OF THE HARBOR BEACH AREA FIRE 
                   DEPARTMENT FOR 50 YEARS OF SERVICE

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. CANDICE S. MILLER

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, March 30, 2011

  Mrs. MILLER of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, it is my distinct pleasure to 
pay tribute to Firefighter Jim Ritchie of the Harbor Beach Area Fire 
Department located in beautiful Huron County, Michigan. This year marks 
the 50th year of service for Mr. Ritchie who began his career with the 
Department in 1960 at 22 years old.
  Mr. Ritchie has consistently set high standards during his 
outstanding career in the fire services. The State of Michigan, the 
10th Congressional District and the City of Harbor Beach have benefited 
greatly from his devotion, sacrifice and strong leadership skills. He 
was among some of the first individuals in the surrounding Thumb Area 
to become a state certified fire instructor--demonstrating his 
commitment to be a great mentor and teacher to younger volunteer 
firefighters joining the profession.
  Mr. Speaker, firefighters are the backbone of our communities. They 
are often the first to respond to an emergency. Whether it is a fire, 
car accident, natural disaster, an act of terrorism, medical emergency, 
or hazardous spill, extraordinary men and women stand ready to serve. 
They have an unwavering dedication to protect those who are in 
distress.
  But sometimes, first responders are taken for granted. That is until 
a crisis strikes and the public reaches out for help. Against their 
better judgment, firefighters rush to the scene of an emergency and 
into harm's way. When our natural instincts tell us to flee, 
firefighters rush in. And without the promise of fame, fortune, or as 
much as a simple ``thank you,'' firefighters remain constantly 
vigilant.
  Despite this, Firefighter Ritchie continues to show true bravery and 
courage in times of panic and crisis. He has served a key role with the 
Harbor Beach Area Fire Department. He is a great American and I salute 
him.
  In closing, Mr. Speaker, I am extremely proud of all the men and 
women who risk their lives to protect our safety and well-being, so it 
is my honor to offer my sincere gratitude to Mr. Jim Ritchie for his 50 
years of service. His leadership, integrity, and dedication are greatly 
appreciated. I wish him all the best as he continues to serve the 
citizens of the City of Harbor Beach.

                          ____________________