[Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 28 (Tuesday, February 13, 2024)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E144]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 HONORING 100 YEARS OF THE CULPEPER COUNTY VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT, 
                               COMPANY 1

                                 ______
                                 

                     HON. ABIGAIL DAVIS SPANBERGER

                              of virginia

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, February 13, 2024

  Ms. SPANBERGER. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the Culpeper 
Volunteer Fire Department, Company 1 for their 100 years of dedicated 
service toward their mission to aid in the preservation and protection 
of life and property from and during fires, and their commitment to the 
Culpeper community.
  The Culpeper Volunteer Fire Department was born from a desire to help 
neighbors in need. Chartered in January 1924, the department was first 
led by Chief J. William Swan and was comprised of 19 volunteers ready 
to answer the call. In their early days, they relied on their 1923 
American LaFrance Brockway ``Torpedo'' Engine, which they housed on the 
ground floor of the Municipal Building. Volunteer firefighters used 
canvas coats with leather gloves bought at local hardware stores, and 
some donned World War I metal helmets or construction helmets to fight 
fires. It was not until the early 1950s that Culpeper volunteer 
firefighters got their first official fireproof gear. Soon after, they 
relocated to West Davis Street where they are still located today.
  The Culpeper Volunteer Fire Department is a unique and treasured 
organization. Made up completely of volunteers from all walks of life, 
these brave individuals respond to emergencies in their community in 
their spare time. Through their service, they provide fire protection 
and life-saving aid to more than 54,000 Culpeper County residents and 
cover 383 square miles.
  What began as a dream to help their neighbors has grown into a strong 
organization that continues to uphold the founding mission set 100 
years ago--``to provide emergency services to the citizens of our 
entire community . . . achieved through our principles of commitment, 
education, recognized standards, and professionalism.'' Today they 
boast a membership of 65 volunteer firefighters. In 2023, they answered 
913 calls with a fleet composed of an engine, a pumper, a rescue 
engine, and more, all purchased with the help of their community 
through fundraising and donations.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in commending the work 
and commitment to services that Culpeper Volunteer Fire Department, 
Company 1 has carried out over the last 100 years. Their service to the 
community is invaluable, and I wish them the best as they continue 
their work to help our neighbors when they most need it.