[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 160 (2014), Part 8]
[Senate]
[Page 11994]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




                  HAMTRAMCK FIRE DEPARTMENT CENTENNIAL

  Mr. LEVIN. Mr. President, our Nation's first responders are in many 
ways our everyday heroes. Always ready when we need them most, they 
risk their lives to ensure our safety. To do this, they spend long 
hours away from their families on grueling shifts and make countless 
other sacrifices. For the last century, the Hamtramck Fire Department 
has been a part of this distinguished tradition.
  The Hamtramck Fire Department was established in its current form in 
1914, but the department's roots run deeper. The Hamtramck Spouters, 
the first organized firefighting unit in the area, was founded in 
February 1857. From its inception, the department has sought to improve 
with each passing year, which has led to many advances, including 
updated technology, lowered response times, and fewer fires through 
prevention efforts. The department has served Hamtramck citizens with 
distinction, even as tough economic times have made the job harder. 
Their mission to protect the residents of Hamtramck is as vital today 
as it was 100 years ago.
  Today, the fire department tackles a heavy load, making more than 
3,100 runs each year. In the process, they have saved countless lives 
and property, often at great personal risk. Their courageous service is 
remarkable, and their reputation within the community is impeccable.
  The Hamtramck Fire Department also has sought to make an impact in 
the community outside of the fire hall. From organizing park cleanups, 
to buying uniforms for Hamtramck High School's women's basketball team, 
the fire department has provided valuable services to the community.
  Just this year, the fire department won a fireworks display for the 
city in the national Red, White & You contest. They were chosen from a 
group of more than 2,500 entries. Because of their efforts, the city 
hosted its first Fourth of July fireworks display in more than three 
decades. Announcing the fireworks display, Fire Chief Paul Wilk noted, 
``We are a very diverse city that's fallen on hard times--we need a 
boost like this.''
  The pride in their city and sense of service the department displayed 
in their application to the Red, White & You contest bears repeating. 
Firefighter John Dropchuck, who has been with the department for 15 
years, wrote, ``Cultural diversity and a strong blue collar work ethic 
make up the backbone of our town. There is no better representation of 
the pursuit of the `American Dream' than Hamtramck. . . The Hamtramck 
Fire Department is entering this contest on behalf of our residents, 
who we feel deserve this celebration.'' The commitment of Hamtramck's 
firefighters to going above and beyond for their city and its citizens 
is an example for all of us.
  On May 3, 2014, the Hamtramck Fire Department celebrated its 100th 
anniversary with the annual St. Florian March and Mass. It was a 
fitting way to mark this historic milestone, giving the community an 
opportunity to offer their thanks. On July 5, the celebrations 
continued with an impressive fireworks display, another opportunity to 
come together in fellowship and thanksgiving.
  We owe our Nation's firefighters and first responders a huge debt of 
gratitude. Their bravery and willingness to serve provides families 
across Michigan with a measure of security. I know my colleagues join 
me in congratulating the Hamtramck Fire Department on a century of 
service and a job well done. They are a wonderful example of public 
service, and I wish them much success as they continue their mission to 
protect the public.

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