[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 156 (2010), Part 10]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 14235]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




               HONORING THE CROSS PLAINS FIRE DEPARTMENT

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. TAMMY BALDWIN

                              of wisconsin

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, July 27, 2010

  Ms. BALDWIN. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the 100th 
anniversary of the Cross Plains Fire Department.
  Since 1910, the Cross Plains area has been under the responsive and 
watchful eye of the Cross Plains Fire Department. Fire departments play 
an essential role in any community, and the Cross Plains Fire 
Department is no exception. Their steadfast vigilance of the area is a 
reflection of the tight-knit community which they safeguard and the 
outstanding bravery of the men and women of the Cross Plains Fire 
Department over the last 100 years is praiseworthy.
  The establishment of the Cross Plains Fire Department in 1910 
actually predates the incorporation of the Village of Cross Plains. 
Today, Fire Chief Dale Lochner and his staff operate out of a single 
fire station, protecting over 41 square miles and almost 4,000 
residents. In addition to providing service to the Village of Cross 
Plains, the station also serves the Townships of Cross Plains and 
Berry. Whether it is fighting fires, search and rescue, or saving lives 
as first responders, firefighters are essential to our communities.
  Volunteer firefighters risk their lives everyday for the people of 
their communities and the livelihood of our great Nation. These true 
heroes provide every citizen with a feeling of security and safety, 
something that cannot be taken for granted. Every year, in towns all 
across Wisconsin and the United States, volunteer firefighters like 
those of the Cross Plains Fire Department provide a vital public 
service without requiring a single dime in compensation. Their 
selflessness and willingness to give back to the community is 
inspirational.
  The motto of the Village of Cross Plains is, ``Famous for 
Friendliness,'' and this ideal is personified by the volunteer staff at 
the Cross Plains Fire Department. Every day since 1910, the residents 
of the Cross Plains area have enjoyed the service and protection 
provided by the department. Today, I join the residents of the Village 
of Cross Plains and the towns of Cross Plains and Berry, the residents 
of Wisconsin, and all citizens of the United States in recognizing, 
honoring, and sincerely thanking the Cross Plains Fire Department for 
their tireless work and commitment for the past 100 years.

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