[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 164 (Monday, October 6, 2025)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E932]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




HONORING TIM JONES AS A DISTINGUISHED FIRST RESPONDER LEADER IN CENTRAL 
                                FLORIDA

                                  _____
                                 

                            HON. DARREN SOTO

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                        Monday, October 6, 2025

  Mr. SOTO. Mr. Speaker, Tim Jones was born in the Bronx, New York, in 
the 1970's, and from a young age knew he wanted to be a firefighter. 
Growing up, he admired the courage and sacrifice of firefighters, and 
as a child, he often told friends and family that one day he would 
drive fire trucks. September 11, 2001, profoundly shaped Tim's path, 
reaffirming his commitment and lifelong calling to public service. Two 
years later, on September 11, 2003, he officially began his career with 
the Orange County Fire Rescue Department. From that day forward, he has 
dedicated his life to protecting others, serving his community, and 
honoring the legacy of sacrifice and courage that inspired him.
  Driving and operating fire engines quickly became his passion, while 
training and teaching emerged as his gift. Tim has trained hundreds of 
new recruits as a recruit training officer and guided experienced 
firefighters, engineers, and lieutenants through advanced instruction 
on the fire ground. He has helped design and administer the 
department's driver-operator promotional exam and has been a consistent 
leader in professional development.
  Beyond technical training, Tim has invested deeply in the health and 
well-being of his fellow firefighters. As a certified peer fitness 
trainer, he has supported personnel in maintaining physical readiness. 
As a founding member of the Peer Support Team and Dog Therapy Program, 
he has championed mental health resources for firefighters and their 
families. His leadership, loyalty, and compassion have made him a 
cornerstone of the department and community. His fellow firefighters 
know they can count on him at any hour, on or off duty, and his 
community knows him as a trusted friend. It is not uncommon for 
neighbors, residents, or even strangers to stop him to thank him for 
the many ways he has touched their lives--whether through saving a 
loved one, offering comfort during hardship, or simply showing up when 
he was needed most and simply being a steady and trusted presence.
  Tim lives by the words of Muhammad Ali: ``Service to others is the 
rent you pay for your room here on Earth.'' His career exemplifies that 
service, sacrifice, and commitment.

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