[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 146 (2000), Part 2]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 2795]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]



       HONORING LIEUTENANT RICHARD BEIRNE AS IRISHMAN OF THE YEAR

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. ROSA L. DeLAURO

                             of connecticut

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, March 14, 2000

  Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker, it gives me great pleasure to rise today to 
join West Haven's Irish community as it honors Lieutenant Richard 
Beirne as Irishman of the Year. His outstanding record of service, both 
professional and volunteer, serves as an example to us all.
  Lieutenant Beirne has dedicated his lifetime to the West Haven 
community, devoting himself to improving the lot of our children and 
families. He began his career as a volunteer fireman in 1975, and was 
inducted as a career firefighter with the West Shore Fire Department in 
1980. Few things are more important than feeling safe in our homes and 
workplaces. Whether hosing down flames, rescuing a child from a burning 
house, or waiting for our call, firefighters are there to protect us 
and provide us with the peace of mind we need to sleep at night. For 
twenty-five years, Lieutenant Beirne has shown a commitment to protect 
our community. There are no words that can express our sincere thanks 
and appreciation for his service.
  Beyond his commendable professional career, Lieutenant Beirne has an 
unparalleled record of community involvement. A member of several 
service organizations, Lieutenant Beirne has made a tremendous effort 
to promote Irish-American culture. In addition, Lieutenant Beirne 
currently serves as the Vice President of Local 1198 Professional 
Firefighters Union AFL-CIO, he is working to ensure that firefighters--
hard working men and women--are assured livable wages, quality health 
benefits, and secure pensions to support themselves and their families. 
Despite all of these commitments, Lieutenant Beirne still finds time to 
volunteer as the EMT for the Pop Warner Football League. Providing this 
service at practices as well as games, he ensures the safety of every 
child participating in the league. Lieutenant Beirne has shown an 
incredible level of commitment to his community. He has been a mentor 
to many youngsters and serves as an inspiration to us all.
  Today, a community will gather to honor Richard Beirne as Irishman of 
the Year. I cannot think of a more deserving individual to be given 
such a title. I am pleased to join with his wife, Susan, children, 
Patrick and Katie, friends and the entire West Haven community in 
congratulating him on this very special honor. My best wishes to 
Richard and his family for continued health and happiness.

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