[Congressional Record Volume 161, Number 103 (Thursday, June 25, 2015)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E982]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


    CELEBRATING THE 110TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE MENDHAM FIRE DEPARTMENT

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                      HON. RODNEY P. FRELINGHUYSEN

                             of new jersey

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, June 25, 2015

  Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 110th 
Anniversary of the Mendham Fire Department located in the Borough of 
Mendham in Morris County, New Jersey.
  The Mendham Fire Department was established on June 20, 1905. The 
first officers of the department were elected at the founding meeting. 
The President was Edward S.P. Bretherton, Secretary J. Smith Gunther, 
Treasurer Charles P. Bretherton, and Chief John M. Hoffman. The 
original firehouse was completed in December 1906 with $885 raised by 
the residents. In 1913 the Mendham Independent Hook, Ladder, and Hose 
Company No. 1 was formed. One year later in 1904 the First Aid Squad 
came into existence with twelve men volunteers. In the past century, 
the department has grown and continued to provide the community with 
exemplary service.
  On September 11, 2001 the fire department responded to terrorist 
attacks in New York. Their First Aid Squad was also sent to the World 
Trade Center to assist the victims at the site of the tragedy.
  In 2014, the department responded to 250 calls with an average 
response time of seven minutes and twenty-two seconds. This is about 
two minutes less than the national average for all volunteer fire 
organizations. The department is not just responsible for responding to 
emergency calls. They are actively involved in just about every facet 
of the Mendham community and provide mutual aid to neighboring towns.
  Each year the department continues to grow their junior membership. 
They provide opportunities for young men and women aged sixteen to 
eighteen, who participate in various firefighting and first aid 
activities. The makeup of the junior membership represents the best and 
brightest of Mendham. They carry on to college and beyond the 
confidence and skills that are instilled in them while working at the 
fire department.
  The Mendham Fire Department has been able to maintain and grow a 
wonderful relationship of trust and respect with Mendham residents. For 
this 110th Anniversary the department is planning a number of events 
and activities to celebrate their achievements.
  Mr. Speaker, please join me in thanking and recognizing the Mendham 
Fire Department for their 110 years of dedicated service to the 
community.

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