[Congressional Record Volume 159, Number 140 (Wednesday, October 9, 2013)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1465]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 HONORING THE WEST HAVEN FIRE DEPARTMENT AS THEY CELEBRATE THEIR 125TH 
                              ANNIVERSARY

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. ROSA L. DeLAURO

                             of connecticut

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, October 9, 2013

  Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I rise today 
to extend my sincere congratulations to the members of the West Haven 
Fire Department, past and present, as they celebrate their 125th 
anniversary. This is a milestone for this wonderful organization and I 
am proud to have this opportunity to honor their outstanding work on 
behalf of the West Haven community.
  The men and women who serve as firefighters face risks that few of us 
can comprehend. Each day, they must be ready to perform under intense 
pressure--literally in life or death situations as we have all 
witnessed in recent days. Few things are more important than feeling 
safe in our homes and workplaces. Our firefighters provide us with that 
peace of mind. Their commitment and dedication cannot be questioned and 
our thanks can never repay those who put their lives on the line to 
ensure our safety. A combination of career and volunteer firefighters, 
the members of the West Haven Fire Department have demonstrated an 
extraordinary commitment to our community.
  On November 6, 1888, a fire broke out at the Hinman Hotel on the 
Corner of Washington Avenue and Beach Street. Not having a fire 
department of their own, the City of West Haven sent word to New Haven 
and asking for assistance. Unfortunately, by the time the New Haven 
Fire Department was able to respond, the Hinman Hotel had burned to the 
ground. This prompted the people of West Haven to form their own fire 
department and on November 18, 1888, Engine & Hose Company #1 was 
founded.
  It was not until 1892 that two more companies were formed. In January 
of that year, the James Graham Hook & Ladder and the West Haven Hook & 
Ladder both came to be. In 1895 North End Hose #3 and Seaside Hose #4 
(later to become Savin Rock Hose #4) both entered the department. 
Although the James Grahams would disband in 1902, Engine #1, Hook & 
Ladder, Engine #3 and Engine #4 all remain active companies to this 
day. During World War II, a group of firefighters would be formed and 
funded by the Federal Government for civil defense. At the end of the 
war these men founded Steven Heights Engine Company #5, bringing the 
total number of the volunteer companies back up to five.
  In 1919, shortly after the passing of House Bill 177, West Haven's 
first official Board of Commissioners was seated and they continue to 
serve in the same capacity to this day. On January 24, 1933, the 
Commissioners appointed the first six permanent paid firemen, 
establishing the career department. Lloyd Cameron was appointed Chief 
of Department by the new board in 1919. In 1936 the board made Chief 
Cameron the first Permanent Paid Chief of the department. Over its 125 
year history, the career department would expand from six men to its 
current compliment of 54. All in all 167 men have been hired by the 
career department including those who are currently employed.
  In 1988, in conjunction with the 100th anniversary of the department, 
the Department began their Explorer Post program. Young boys and girls 
of high school age are able to join the Explorers, learn about 
firefighting and train alongside the members of the Department. Most go 
on to join the volunteer companies and a few have even become career 
firefighters.
  Today, as they reflect on their history and look towards their 
future, I am honored to extend my sincere thanks and appreciation to 
every member of the West Haven Fire Department, career or volunteer, 
past and present, for their outstanding service to our community. Happy 
125th anniversary.

                          ____________________