[Congressional Record Volume 158, Number 121 (Tuesday, September 11, 2012)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1475]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




      WEST CALDWELL VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT'S 100TH ANNIVERSARY

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                      HON. RODNEY P. FRELINGHUYSEN

                             of new jersey

                    in the house of representatives

                      Tuesday, September 11, 2012

  Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the West 
Caldwell Volunteer Fire Department of West Caldwell, Essex County, New 
Jersey for the celebration of its 100th Anniversary this year.
  Although the Borough of West Caldwell received its charter in 1904, 
it was not until August 5, 1912 that the pressing need for organized 
protection against fire prompted the incorporation of a fire 
department. With the help of an appointed committee, the department 
soon legitimized, purchasing fire equipment and property for a 
firehouse, on which the first WCVFD firehouse was built. Additional 
investments in horse drawn wagons, a 700 foot fire house, and sounding 
fire alarms further improved the efficiency of the department.
  Beginning in 1917 the Borough motorized the department, continuing to 
purchase automobile fire apparatuses throughout the 1950's and 1960's 
in response to the demands of industry, business, and an increasing 
population.
  Despite the fact that the department's first initial firehouse no 
longer stands, in 1968 the West Caldwell Borough constructed a new 
firehouse. This firehouse, located on 6 Fairfield Avenue, is home to 
the present day headquarters of the department.
  Today, the West Caldwell Volunteer Fire Department clearly maintains 
its initial principles of teamwork and commitment. Under current Chief 
James Alvine, the department consists of approximately 60 dedicated 
individuals who work together to save lives on a daily basis.
  It is evident that the West Caldwell Volunteer Fire Department 
exhibits the unity and teamwork required of the fire service. The 
merits of courage, pride, and passion that permeate the department 
serve as a testament to its long withstanding success.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask you and my colleagues to join me in congratulating 
the West Caldwell Volunteer Fire Department of West Caldwell, Essex 
County, New Jersey, for the achievement of its 100th anniversary.

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