[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 150 (2004), Part 14]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 19380]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]


     HONORING THE KIMBERTON FIRE COMPANY ON THEIR 75TH ANNIVERSARY

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. JIM GERLACH

                            of pennsylvania

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, September 23, 2004

  Mr. GERLACH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Kimberton Fire 
Company of Kimberton, Pennsylvania on the occasion of their 75th 
Anniversary.
  The Kimberton Fire Company began back in 1929 when a group of 
community leaders came together to discuss the need for a local fire 
company to protect the community and its vicinity from the inherent 
danger of fire. On February 5, 1929, the first officers were elected by 
the newly formed membership. At that time, they also voted to purchase 
one 1917 Brockway Combination Chemical and Hose Car for $300. These 
steps led to the Kimberton Fire Company's official incorporation three 
months later in May of 1929.
  In May 1936, right after the Company purchased their first new fire 
apparatus, the Hale Pumper, fire broke out in the Kimberton firehouse. 
While the firehouse was completely destroyed, firefighters were able to 
save the pumper and were able to utilize their new equipment to 
extinguish the fire.
  Today, the Kimberton Fire Company has a fleet of twelve emergency 
vehicles. This fleet has the capability to meet the needs of the 
Kimberton community that is comprised of six municipalities and covers 
over 32 square miles. The area protected by the Kimberton Fire Company 
ranges from the farmland to small towns and suburban developments.
  Not only does the Kimberton Fire Company provide outstanding rescue 
and fire services, they also provide exemplary community service. The 
members of the Kimberton Fire Company serve as members of the Tanker 
Task Force and the State Forest Fire Crew. The Kimberton Fire Company 
is also the area's Emergency Operations Center and an evacuation 
center. Meeting space is provided at the firehouse for the Boy Scouts 
and for other groups such as Exploring and Venture group. The firehouse 
also opens its doors and hosts fundraisers and other community events. 
The Kimberton Fire Company believes strongly in investing in the youth 
of the community because they believe that today's youth will provide 
for a more improved community in the future. The Kimberton Fire Company 
is well-known for its fire and rescue teams, and also for being 
actively responsive to the unique needs of the Kimberton community. 
Lifelong friendships and solid community partnerships have been made 
and the Kimberton Fire Company is prominent in establishing and 
maintaining these local bonds.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me today is congratulating 
the Kimberton Fire Company for its dedication and service to the 
Kimberton area community. It is an honor to recognize the Kimberton 
Fire Company for its 75 years of tremendous service to the people.

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