[Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 101 (Friday, June 14, 2024)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E640]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




   CELEBRATING THE ARNOLD VOLUNTEER ENGINE COMPANY NO. 2 ON 100 YEARS

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. GUY RESCHENTHALER

                            of pennsylvania

                    in the house of representatives

                         Friday, June 14, 2024

  Mr. RESCHENTHALER. Mr. Speaker, I rise to celebrate the Arnold 
Volunteer Engine Company No. 2 on its 100th anniversary.
  The Arnold Volunteer Engine Company No. 2 held its first meeting at 
Arnold High School on May 12, 1924. Shortly afterward, Westmoreland 
County granted the company an official charter on June 14, 1924. It's 
17 founding members dedicated their lives and work to the people of the 
Allegheny-Kiski Valley. Company No. 2 quickly became a pillar in its 
southwestern Pennsylvania community. The company constructed its first 
fire hall in 1928, which is still in use today. Additionally, the 
firefighters, efforts to engage with the community extended beyond 
protecting citizens and responding to emergencies. In 1949, they built 
a clubhouse for members, their families, and the community to gather 
and socialize. Due to continued outreach and service, they assumed the 
responsibility of transporting Santa Claus through Arnold, 
Pennsylvania, during the annual Christmas parade. This tradition 
continues today.
  Over the past hundred years, Company No. 2 operated with 
professionalism, speed, and dedication. After a destructive fire took 
the lives of three first responders in 1995, the firefighters began 
training in rapid intervention tactics and protocols. Company No. 2 
still provides this rapid intervention training to fire companies 
around the Allegheny-Kiski Valley area. The volunteer firefighters of 
Company No. 2 remain focused on sharing their expertise and working 
with other fire companies to ensure all first responders are trained 
and ready to respond to emergencies effectively.
  There are 42 active members of the Arnold Volunteer Engine Company 
No. 2. Notably, five charter members of the inaugural Junior 
Firefighter Program are celebrating 50 years of volunteer service. I 
want to thank and honor James Duncan, Donald Ferrante, Joseph Puet, 
John Tort, Jr., and William Weber for their devotion to the people of 
southwestern Pennsylvania.
  Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the people of Pennsylvania's 14th 
Congressional District, I congratulate Arnold Volunteer Engine Company 
No. 2 on its 100th anniversary and its great work serving the 
community.