[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 76 (Wednesday, May 7, 2025)]
[House]
[Pages H1898-H1899]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




       HONORING THE LIFE AND SERVICE OF EDWARD ``CHIP'' CHIDESTER

  (Mr. MEUSER asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 
minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)
  Mr. MEUSER. Mr. Speaker, it is very important that we here in the 
Chamber discuss the truths behind Medicaid and how we are working to 
save it.
  However, today, right now, Mr. Speaker, I rise with a heavy heart to 
honor the life and service of a local hero from my district, Assistant 
Fire Chief Chip Chidester of the Harford Volunteer Fire Company in 
Susquehanna County, Pennsylvania.
  Sadly, Chip passed away on April 27 from complications stemming from 
injuries he sustained in an early March fight against a fire in his 
community.
  Chip grew up in the firehouse, volunteering from a young age, 
alongside his father who had served as assistant chief. His early 
calling turned into a lifetime of service; 40 years with the 
department, Mr. Speaker, including 29 years as assistant chief.
  Chip was a mentor to younger members, served on several truck teams, 
and was a trusted, steady presence in the firehouse and in the 
community.

[[Page H1899]]

  To those who knew him, Chip never met a person who didn't become a 
friend, and once a friend, you were always a friend. Community members 
just describe him as one great guy.
  We extend our deepest sympathies to Chip's wife of nearly 20 years, 
Barbara; to his entire family; and to the Harford Volunteer Fire 
Company.
  Mr. Speaker, I thank them all for their service.
  May God bless his soul.

                          ____________________