[Congressional Record Volume 160, Number 69 (Thursday, May 8, 2014)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E714]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                           HONORING DON RUST

                                  _____
                                 

                          HON. JASON T. SMITH

                              of missouri

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, May 8, 2014

  Mr. SMITH of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Mr. Don 
Rust who on May 1, 2014, retired as Fire Chief for the city of Houston, 
Missouri.
  Don began his career in the fire department in January of 1976 and 
has served as the Chief of the Houston department for the past thirty 
one years. During his tenure, Don has an exceptional list of 
accomplishments. Don oversaw the construction of a new fire station, 
created the Junior Fire Fighter Program to attract younger recruits, 
improved the department's insurance rating, and significantly improved 
fire fighter pay.
  Don also sat on numerous committees and served his community in 
various ways. He was the County Civil Defense Director, served on the 
Houston Planning and Zoning Commission, and supervised the Texas County 
Rescue. In 2007, Don received the U.S. Presidential Service Award that 
recognizes volunteerism in the fire service.
  Don has been married to his wife Janet since 1975 and is the father 
of two sons, Darren and David. Both followed in their father's 
footsteps and have served as firefighters. It is my privilege to 
recognize Don's achievements before the House of Representatives and I 
wish him a long and fulfilling retirement.

                          ____________________