The publication is reproduced in full below:
CONGRATULATING THE PROSPECT VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT ON THE OCCASION
OF THEIR 75TH ANNIVERSARY
______
HON. ROSA L. DeLAURO
of connecticut
in the house of representatives
Thursday, June 24, 2021
Ms. DeLAURO. Madam Speaker, it is with great pride that I rise today to join the many family, friends, and community members gathered to add my congratulations to the Volunteer Fire Department of Prospect, Connecticut as they mark the 75th Anniversary of this very special organization.
Incorporated on September 11, 1945, the Prospect Volunteer Fire Department was founded and continues today as an all-volunteer effort. Over the course of its history, the department has grown and re-shaped itself to meet the changing needs of the community, but at its core has always been dedicated members of the community answering the call and living up to their motto--``neighbors helping neighbors.'' Indeed, many of those who volunteer today are 2nd, 3rd, and 4th generations of the Department's original members.
And it is not just their volunteer efforts when it comes to combatting fires. From the dollars raised to buy their first fire truck to the construction of the Department's first building, to their most recent equipment purchases, the Department and its volunteer members depend more on the generosity of their neighbors and their community than they do on the annual town budget. As their written history accounts, ``from the first dances at the old Chapel School House, through suppers, fireworks sales, ``dollar a month club'', Clyde Beatty Circus, and Carnival, the department has earned its own way. While a small amount of the expenses has been born by the town, fire coverage to equal that furnished by the Prospect Volunteer Fire Department would have cost the town thousands of dollars.''
It is that spirit and deep sense of community that is what makes the Prospect Volunteer Fire Department such a unique and special organization. As the Prospect community gathers today to celebrate this wonderful achievement, I would like to take this opportunity to thank all of those who have dedicated not only their time, but their lives, to the safety of all Prospect residents. Firefighters face risks that many of us can never truly comprehend. Each day they must be able to perform under intense pressure--literally in life or death situations. Few things are more important than feeling safe in our homes and workplaces. Whether hosing down flames, rescuing a child from a burning house, or waiting for our call, firefighters are always there to protect us and provide us with the peace of mind we need to sleep at night. I am proud to recognize and commend the tremendous commitment they have made to our community. Our thanks and appreciation can never repay those who put their lives on the line to ensure our safety.
Today's celebration marks the 75th Anniversary of the Prospect Volunteer Fire Department. The courage and dedication demonstrated each day by these men and women is reflective of the true spirit in which the department was established. I am indeed proud to rise today to extend my thanks for what they do each day, and congratulations on this remarkable accomplishment.
____________________
SOURCE: Congressional Record Vol. 167, No. 110
The Congressional Record is a unique source of public documentation. It started in 1873, documenting nearly all the major and minor policies being discussed and debated.
House Representatives' salaries are historically higher than the median US income.
Alerts Sign-up