[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 151 (2005), Part 15]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 19942]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




                     RETIREMENT OF CHIEF JOHN WALSH

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. ROB SIMMONS

                             of connecticut

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, September 8, 2005

  Mr. SIMMONS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the achievements 
and service of Willimantic Fire Department Chief John Walsh, who has 
served the Connecticut community of Willimantic for more than two 
decades. He has served as a firefighter for more than 50 years.
  Chief Walsh began his career as a volunteer firefighter in 1954. In 
January 1960 he joined the Hartford Fire Department where he 
demonstrated a high degree of professionalism and ability. In 1968 he 
was promoted to Lieutenant and in 1980 he achieved the rank of Captain. 
In December 1983 he became Chief of the Willimantic Fire Department.
  His work on behalf of his fellow firefighters extended beyond the 
community. In 1988 and 1989 he was President of the Connecticut Fire 
Chiefs and he is a member of the New England Fire Chiefs and the 
National Fire Protection Association.
  Firefighters are on call seven days a week, 12 months a year. There 
are no holidays for firefighters. Tragedy never takes a holiday and 
when it strikes a community, firefighters are among the first to 
respond.
  Individuals are not recognized for what they have taken but for what 
they have given. Chief John Walsh's family, colleagues and friends 
honor him for what he has given to his community. I am proud to add my 
voice to theirs. Through his commitment and character he has made 
Willimantic a better place in which to live, work and raise a family.
  Thank you, Chief Walsh, for your service.

                          ____________________