[Congressional Record Volume 158, Number 100 (Friday, June 29, 2012)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1197]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 IN RECOGNITION OF THE LEADERSHIP OF HIGHLAND VILLAGE FIRE DEPARTMENT 
                           CHIEF LONNIE TATUM

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. MICHAEL C. BURGESS

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                         Friday, June 29, 2012

  Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Highland Village Fire 
Department Chief Lonnie Tatum. Chief Tatum has spent over 42 years in 
public service; he began his notable career as a Firefighter/Paramedic 
for the City of Nacogdoches, advancing through the ranks over the next 
32 years serving as Driver/Operator, Lieutenant, Captain and Arson 
Investigator. In 2001, he began his ten year tenure as Fire Chief at 
the City of Highland Village, Texas.
  Chief Tatum is a graduate of the National Fire Academy and attended 
St. Edwards University, Angelina College and graduated from Weatherford 
College with a degree in Fire Service Administration. He holds Masters 
Level Certifications from the Texas Commission on Fire Protection, the 
Texas Commission on Law Enforcement and the Texas Department of Public 
Safety.
  On numerous occasions, he has been recognized for his expertise in 
fire administration and personal dedication as a firefighter. Chief 
Tatum was chosen by the Angelina College Board of Regents to establish 
a Fire Academy and Training Facility at Angelina College in Lufkin, 
Texas, serving as Director for five years. He also served as Regional 
Faculty for the American Heart Association CPR training program at 
Stephen F. Austin University in Nacogdoches, Texas. In 1992, he was 
recognized as ``Outstanding Firefighter'' of the year, and in 1994, he 
received the department's Medal of Valor.
  Under his laudable direction, the Highland Village Fire Department 
has expanded from all volunteer to a professional full-time staff 
comprised of fifteen Firefighters/Paramedics and additional 
administrative personnel. The Highland Village Fire Department has 
garnered recognition reflective of Chief Tatum's capable direction; in 
2006, the Highland Village Fire Department was awarded an ISO 
Classification of 2 and celebrated the grand opening of their new 
state-of-the-art Central Fire Station in May 2008.
  After a decade as Highland Village Fire Chief, Chief Tatum's bravery 
and dedication to the safety and well being of his community will be 
greatly missed; his positive contributions will continue long past his 
retirement. It is my pleasure to recognize Highland Village Fire Chief 
Lonnie Tatum, and I am privileged to represent the City of Highland 
Village in the U.S. House of Representatives.

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