[Congressional Record Volume 166, Number 39 (Thursday, February 27, 2020)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E225-E226]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                IN RECOGNITION OF CHIEF EDWIN ALLEN, JR.

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. ROBERT J. WITTMAN

                              of virginia

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, February 27, 2020

  Mr. WITTMAN. Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Edwin 
Allen Jr. who is retiring from the City of Fredericksburg's Fire 
Department. He served as their Fire Chief for the last 16 years and 
substantially contributed to city's public safety. Edwin had a long, 
rewarding career serving the community and working for the great people 
of the First District.
  45 years ago, the Fredericksburg Fire Department hired Edwin. As an 
ecstatic, driven

[[Page E226]]

man, Edwin rose through the ranks and became a Lieutenant by 1986, then 
a Captain the following year. His service did not disappoint because by 
the mid-1990s, he oversaw critical operations for the Department. Soon 
enough, Edwin found himself leading the Fire Department as their new 
Chief by 2004.
  As Fire Chief, he exceptionally performed his duties and gained a 
reputation for his effective management capacity. He secured millions 
in grant funding and amazingly acquired more responsibilities for the 
Department. The increased responsibilities expanded the force and 
augmented operational capacity. The responsibilities included expansion 
in emergency medical services and even water rescue services. With 
Edwin at the helm for 16 years, he understood the value of camaraderie 
and his distinguished service is worthy of veneration. His love for 
firefighting and passion for serving his community should be admired by 
all of us.
  Therefore, Madam Speaker, join me to recognize Chief Allen's service 
to the First District and to the Commonwealth. His dedication to the 
Fire Department exemplifies the type of leadership that our great 
Nation demands. Let us wish Edwin the best during his retirement, as 
his rest is well deserved. On behalf of the First District, we say 
thank you.

                          ____________________