[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 148 (2002), Part 14]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 19417]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




         RECOGNITION FOR CHIEF DENNIS COMPTON OF MESA, ARIZONA

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. CURT WELDON

                            of pennsylvania

                    in the house of representatives

                        Monday, October 7, 2002

  Mr. WELDON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I would like to recognize 
Chief Dennis Compton of the Meza, Arizona Fire Department who is 
retiring after 30 years of dedication and commitment to the fire and 
emergency services.
  Among Congressional Fire Services Caucus leaders, Chief Compton is 
highly regarded for his character and integrity. He is an individual 
who has lent an enormous amount of time to the Congressional Fire 
Services Institute, serving as Chairperson of its National Advisory 
Committee. Many of the recent successes enjoyed by the fire service 
bear his imprint.
  Chief Compton possesses many outstanding attributes, perhaps none 
more important than his skills as a coalition builder. We tend to think 
of the fire service as a unified service. As a former fire chief, 
myself, I can tell you from personal experiences that it is not. The 
fire and emergency services must often address internal conflicts that 
can disrupt progress at both the local and national levels. In either 
case, I cannot think of anyone more qualified and effective in 
resolving differences and building coalitions than Chief Compton.
  Fortunately, he has reassured the fire service that he will remain an 
active advocate for public safety causes upon retirement as chief. I 
will hold him to that promise. At this critical juncture as we discuss 
proposals for defending our nation against potential acts of terrorism, 
we need to heed the advise of knowledgeable individuals who can offer 
sound judgment and guidance on such a critical issue. Chief Compton is 
such an individual.
  However, I have it on good authority, Mr. Speaker, that the reason 
for Chief Compton's retirement has to do with two passions: his 
grandson and his Diamondbacks. Apparently he would like to spend more 
time with both.
  In closing, I extend to Chief Compton my congratulations on his 
retirement and thanks for his immeasurable contributions to our 
nation's fire and emergency services.

                          ____________________