[Congressional Record Volume 162, Number 102 (Friday, June 24, 2016)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E988-E989]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




   HONORING THE RECIPIENTS OF THE WEST SPRINGFIELD ROTARY CLUB FIRE, 
                   RESCUE AND FIRST RESPONDER AWARDS

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. GERALD E. CONNOLLY

                              of virginia

                    in the house of representatives

                         Friday, June 24, 2016

  Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the West Springfield 
Rotary Club and to congratulate the recipients of the 2016 Fire, 
Rescue, and First Responder of the Year Awards.
   The West Springfield Rotary Club (WSRC) was established over 25 
years ago, making it one of the oldest of the nearly 60 clubs that 
comprise Rotary District 7610. Throughout its existence, the WSRC and 
its members have dedicated themselves to service to our neighbors and 
our community. Each year, the WSRC recognizes area first responders who 
have gone above and beyond the call of duty. This year, the three 
individuals who will be honored are stationed at West Springfield Fire 
Station 27, and it is my honor to submit their names and to 
congratulate each of them on receiving this award.
   Master Technician Hyun Lee has been a Fairfax County firefighter for 
12 years, the last six as an engine driver. Two years ago, she earned 
the proficiency designation of Master Technician (MT) and assumed 
additional responsibilities including company and battalion level 
training and ensuring proficiency of the station. Master Technician Lee 
is known for her hands-on instruction and training of newer 
firefighters and personal attention to their professional growth. Her 
dedication has allowed her to instill her work ethic and passion into

[[Page E989]]

the trainees at Fire Station 27. In addition to her work on the job, 
Master Technician Lee serves as Secretary and Treasurer of the Fairfax 
County Asian Firefighter Association.
   Technician William Harrington has been a Fairfax County firefighter 
for eight years, serving as an EMS Technician for the past four. He is 
also a paramedic and has volunteered as a preceptor to instruct new 
medics. He is described as tireless and thorough, and goes above and 
beyond even on his days off. Technician Harrington truly exemplifies 
the motto of ``service above self,'' through his initiative and ability 
to lead by example in even the most dangerous of situations. He is a 
role model to all and sets the tone for others to follow and succeed.
   Fire Technician Antwaun Hawkins has served for more than 11 years 
with the Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department and has been with 
West Springfield station since 2012. He currently serves as the EMS 
Technician on the B-shift and is Operator in Charge of Medic 427 nearly 
every day. He has successfully completed Hazmat School and is 
completing Inspections training to build his skills, expertise, and to 
open up advancement opportunities in the future. Even with the demands 
of his position and family responsibilities to his wife and sons, he is 
known for his calming presence and philosophical conversations.
   Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me commending the West 
Springfield Rotary Club for its support of our community and our first 
responders, and in congratulating the recipients of the 2016 Fire, 
Rescue, and First Responders of the Year awards. These individuals 
along with their colleagues throughout the Fairfax County Fire and 
Rescue Department do not hesitate to place themselves in harm's way to 
protect and serve county residents and property. I thank each of them 
for their service, bravery, and dedication. Stay Safe.

                          ____________________