Ask the Scholar
Document scope · 1 page
Scholar
Ask about this object, its catalog metadata, its source description, or the page inventory.
For page-specific OCR and visual context, open one of the page chats.
Scholar Source Context
Document identity
localId
323152919
label
Bethesda Rescue Squad 4/25/90 [OA 8311]
core
doc
dtoType
document
citationUrl
pageCount
1
Source metadata
id
323152919
contentType
document
title
Bethesda Rescue Squad 4/25/90 [OA 8311]
citationUrl
identifierLocal
13716-004
collections
Records of the White House Office of Speechwriting (George H. W. Bush Administration)
Speech Backup Chronological Files
imageCount
1
hasImages
yes
source
import
hasTranscription
no
Source extras
naId
323152919
levelOfDescription
fileUnit
recordType
description
ocrSource
nara-archive
Single page context
seq
1
pageIndex
0
type
document
mediaId
82604fe6ef51f813
ocrText
Originally Processed With FOIA(s):
FOIA Number:
S
S
FOIA
MARKER
This is not a textual record. This is used as an
administrative marker by the George Bush Presidential
Library Staff.
Record Group/Collection:
George H.W. Bush Presidential Records
Collection/Office of Origin:
Speechwriting, White House Office of
Series:
Speech File Backup Files
Subseries:
Chron Files, 1989-1993
OA/ID Number:
13716
Folder ID Number:
13716-004
Folder Title:
Bethesda Rescue Squad 4/25/90 [OA 8311]
Stack:
Row:
Section:
Shelf:
Position:
G
26
20
5
4
1941
7
BETHESDA-CHEVY CHASE RESCUE SQUAD
INC.
EMERGENCY
MD
944
DC 652-1000
5020 BATTERY LANE
BETHESDA. MARYLAND 20814
BUSINESS 652.00
GOLDEN ANNIVERSARY
1000
BOARD OFFICERS
February 13, 1990
GEORGE President A GIEBEL
PHILIP GERMAN
First vice President
DAVID CHACONAS
Second .ice President
President George Bush
ANDREW D MARSH
The White House
Secretary
TIMOTHY = KIEFER
Washington, D.C. 20500
easurer
CHIEF OFFICERS
Dear President Bush:
In 1980, we were honored to host your "kick off" campaign
for the Vice Presidency.
The pleasure of your company and Mrs. Bush is again
requested and this time for a cocktail reception, at a date
of your choice.
This reception is being held to celebrate our Golden
Anniversary, signifying our contribution to community
welfare, as it relates to the fire and rescue services.
Stressing your theme of a "1000 points of light, " we feel
that this Organization, staffed mainly with volunteers, has
epitomized that statement. Volunteerism is, of course,
sometime. something that you have espoused vigorously for quite
Should you decide to accept this invitation, you will be
joined with other local, state and federal officials who
have also been invited to celebrate this occasion with us.
list of calendar dates for this event.
For your convenience, we have attached, as requested, a
We hope that you and Mrs. Bush will be able to attend.
Sincerely,
law
George Gubet
David S. Dwyer
George A. Giebel
Chief
President
ATTACHMENT
CC: Honorable Constance A. Morella
652-0077
U.S. House of Representatives
Febiy Years 1/4 Community Service
APR-19-90 THU 16:32 WNN
P.01
W
ASHINGTON
N
EWS
N
EIWORK
TELEFAX TRANSMITTAL COVER SHEET
DATE:
4/19/90
FAX #:
456-6218
COMPANY:
WHITE HOUSE RESEARCH
ATTENTION:
STEPHANIE BELSSEY
SENT BY:
WALTER GOLD
5:40PM
TIME SENT:
DATE SENT:
4/19/90
TOTAL PAGES SENT: INCLUDING COVER SHEET: 3
NOTES:
PLEASE CONFIAM YOUR RECEIPT
OF THIS BY CALLING ME AT 628-4000
THANKS,
299-5153 (k)
Walt
Extended Page 1.1
--- ....
P.3/3
APR 19 '90 08:27 BCC RESCUE SQUAD INCA
BUT BY THE LATE 1960'S, THE WAR IN VIETNAM WAS TAKING so MANY YOUNG MEN
OUT OF OUR COMMUNITY THAT IT BECAME NECESSARY FOR THE SQUAD TO HIRE A FEW
PAID RESCUE WORKERS TO ENSURE OUR DAYTIME AVAILABILITY. THE CONTINUED USE
OF SOME PAID PERSONNEL IS NECESSITATED BY THE STEADILY GROWING NUMBER OF
DAYTIME CALLS WE RESPOND TO AND BY THE NEED TO MAN ONE AMBULANCE AROUND
THE CLOCK AT THE BETHESDA FIRE DEPARTMENT SUBSTATION ON
DEMONCRACY BOULEVARD TO SERVE THE EVER-GROWING MONTGOMERY MALL AREA.
BY 1970, THE SQUAD HAD OUTGROWN ITS HEADQUARTERS. AFTER YEARS OF PLANNING
AND BUDGETING, GROUND WAS BROKEN IN MAY, 1975, FOR THE SQUAD'S FOURTH AND
HOPEFULLY FINAL HOME AT THE CORNER OF OLD GEORGETOWN ROAD AND
BATTERY LANE. THE BUILDING WAS COMPLETED AND DEDICATED IN AUGUST, 1976.
THE BETHESDA-CHEVY CHASE RESCUE SQUAD WAS AMONG THE FIRST IN AMERICA TO
REQUIRE ADVANCED FIRST AID AND RESCUE TRAINING FOR ITS MEMBERS. THE
SQUAD, ALWAYS A LEADER IN TECHNIQUE AND SERVICE, ALSO WAS AMONG THE FIRST
IN THE NATION TO INCLUDE WOMEN AND MINORITIES (1975) IN ITS RANKS.
THE SQUAD NOW SERVES A POPULATION THE SIZE OF A SMALL CITY WITH SEVEN
MODERN AMBULANCES, TWO HEAVY-DUTY RESCUE SQUAD TRUCKS, A COMPRESSED AIR
TRUCK, THREE UTILITY VEHICLES, A CANTEEN TRUCK, AND A CHIEF'S CAR.
P.2/3
APR 19 '90 08:26 BCC RESCUE SQUAD INCA
HISTORY OF THE
SQUAD
TNC
Extended Page
1.2
Chase
50TH YEAR OF COMMUNITY SERVICE
1938 - 1942
1945 - 1990
LIKE MOST EVERY ORGANIZATION, WE STARTED ON A SHOESTRING.
IN 1938, A SMALL GROUP OF YOUNG VOLUNTEERS, HEADED BY THE LATE
DONALD DUNNINGTON, A BETHESDA BUSINESSMAN, STARTED THE CHEVY CHASE FIRST
AID CORP, FORERUNNER OF THE BETHESDA-CHEVY CHASE RESCUE SQUAD, INC.
WORLD WAR II PUT A TEMPORARY STOP TO THE FIRST AID CORPS IN 1942. THE
YOUNG MEN WHO TOOK TURNS SERVING ON THE ONE TEN-YEAR-OLD NASH AMBULANCE
TRADED THEIR FIRST AID UNIFORMS FOR MILITARY UNIFORMS AND WENT OFF TO
WAR. THREE YEARS LATER, MOST OF THEM CAME BACK HOME.
THE YEAR WAS 1945, AND THE BIG PRE-WAR BOOM WAS JUST STARTING. FORESEEING
THE NEED FOR AMBULANCE AND RESCUE SERVICE IN A RAPIDLY GROWING COMMUNITY,
A SMALL GROUP OF LOCAL BUSINESSMEN AND RESIDENTS, MANY OF THEM MILITARY
RE
VETERANS, ORGANIZED THIS RESCUE SQUAD.
STARTING WITH A LOT OF GUTS AND ONE USED AMBULANCE, THE SQUAD BEGAN TO
WORK AND GROW WITH THE COMMUNITY. OUR "HEADQUARTERS" WAS WHEREVER SOMEONE
WOULD ALLOW US TO USE A VACANT GARAGE. OUR EQUIPMENT WAS OBTAINED ON A
"HAND-ME-DOWN" BASIS.
BUT IT WASN'T LONG BEFORE THE "MEN IN THE WHITE HATS" CAPTURED THE
ADMIRATION AND FINANCIAL SUPPORT OF THE BETHESDA-CHEVY CHASE COMMUNITY.
BY THE EARLY 1950'S, THE SQUAD HAD EXPANDED ITS SERVICES TO ALL PARTS OF
NEARBY MARYLAND AND WASHINGTON, D.C.
IN 1956, WHEN THE SQUAD MOVED FROM A SMALL RENTED GARAGE ON
FAIRMONT AVENUE, THE ORGANIZATION HAD GROWN so POPULAR THAT THERE WAS A
WAITING LIST FOR VOLUNTEER MEMBERSHIP.
301 656 6523
P.02
APR
1
'89
11:18
WELDON
DC
PAGE 02
ORIENTATION AND INDOCTRINATION
their bags with the valuables, carry them to safety, and then as-
sist in the fire fighting After the fire, a member would stand
guard against pilfering and admit only recognized members and
firefighters for salvage work. The fire societies proved valuable,
and within a few years, Boston had several neighborhood clubs
that held regular meetings and had rules that fixed fines for non-
attendance at fires or meetings.
Benjamin Franklin was born in Boston, but moved to
Philadelphia, where he became a leader in early American fire
protection. Returning from a trip to Boston, he wrote an article on
Feb. 2, 1735, about fire protection in his newspaper, The Pennsyl-
vania Gazette, in which he mentioned the Mutual Fire Society of
Boston and how this organization was helping fight fires. The fol-
lowing year Franklin and several of his friends organized the first
fire organization in Philadelphia, the Union Volunteer Fire Com-
pany, patterning it after the Boston Mutual Fire Society (Figure
2.8). In 1752, Franklin and two other businessmen founded the
first successful American fire insurance company, the Philadel-
phia Contributionship of the Assurance of Houses from Loss by
Fire. The company's fire mark was called the "hand in hand" be-
cause it showed the right hands of four men gripping one
another's wrists. Beneath this symbol of unity and strength ap-
Figure 2.8 in 1736, Ben Franklin or-
peared the number of the insurance policy.
ganized the first fire department in
Philadelphia, the Union Volunteer Fire
Company.
The use of the American fire mark differed from England be-
cause American insurance societies did not provide fire fighting
brigades. The towns had no permanent firefighters and the Amer-
ican volunteer received no pay. When the alarm sounded, they
dropped their work and responded to their firehouse. In towns
where fire marks were used, the insuring company would pay the
first company to put water on the fire. Other towns would reward
their first-in firefighters with a sum paid out of the town treasury.
This incentive is blamed for the competition and fierce rivalry
that developed among the volunteers.
After the Revolutionary War, the volunteer firefighter idea
society
spread throughout the country. Veterans returned home and
joined a fire company, many of which became veterans' organiza-
tions with the engine house as their clubroom. The reward for the
first-arriving company changed from pay to pride. Companies be-
592-5985
came better organized, the men and their equipment were more
splendidly decorated, and as a result, rivalries increased. Feel-
ings of exhilaration and self-satisfaction over serving one's com-
munity and doing a worthwhile job well became theirs. With all
the color and excitement of a volunteer firefighter's life, every
company had a long list of young hopefuls waiting for an opening
in the limited membership. In the past, many famous Americans
such as George Washington, John Hancock, Alexander Hamil-
APR 1 '89 11:19
WELDON DC
PAGE. 03
Early Traditions And History
23
L
ton, Samuel Adams, and Paul Revere have served as volunteers,
and now the age of the American volunteer firefighter began.
America was growing and many changes were taking place
in the volunteer fire service. Cities improved building regulations
and water systems. Yankee ingenuity was producing bigger and
better fire engines to replace the worn-out Newsham engines.
Firefighters, cobblers, harness makers, and other enterprising
businessmen started making leather hose, firebelle signals, fire
fighting tools, and uniforms. Because of the urgent need for more
and better protection in the growing cities, nearly all the new
equipment and new methods of fire fighting were introduced in
Boston, Philadelphia, and New York; and were subsequently
adopted by the alert smaller towns. The large cities had developed
some sort of water system using bored-out crude logs that were ta-
pered and fitted together. Every half block or 80 a wooden plug
was inserted into this water system, and this plug was removed to
obtain water. From this came the term "fire plug." It was
Philadelphia that put into service the first successful water sys-
tem, and it was its volunteers who developed a new piece of appar-
atus, the hose wagon, to take advantage of this new system (Fig-
ure 2.9). Hose No. 1, with a limited membership of 20 members,
GOD
Figure 2.9 When water systems began, hose wagons were developed to make maximum use
of the systems.
became the first hose company in America. The volunteers desig-
ned their hose wagon and paid to have it built, purchasing all the
equipment, which included 600 feet (180 m) of hose, nozzles, axes,
and candle-burning lanterns. They also erected a building to
house their apparatus. They had an understanding with Engine 1
Comman needed Cur
(Smith/Blessey)
April 19, 1990
11 A.M.
VOL
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: BETHESDA RESCUE SQUAD
BETHESDA, MARYLAND
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 25, 1990
Members of the Bethesda Volunteer Rescue Squad, ladies and
gentlemen, friends. It is a privilege to be -- please forgive me
-- in such extinguished company. // I'm delighted to address
your group.
One reason is that if my speech is a disaster, relief is
close at hand. // Then, too, we meet in a special week --
Volunteer Week -- which celebrates the character of the American
people. //
Volunteer Week salutes what I call this Nation's points of
light -- that vast galaxy of individuals, businesses, schools,
churches, synagogues, and voluntary associations working together
to solve problems. Your Rescue Squad is a point of light. It is
also a source of life. //
Many people don't realize that fully 85 percent of America's
fire protection is supplied by volunteers -- an amazing total.
Volunteers risking lives to save other lives. Just as America's
fire fighters have done for over 200 years.
( (You know, being here today reminds me of a story that I
heard which happened 60 years ago. It seems that 25 of Boston's
top Prohibition bootleggers were rounded up in a surprise raid.
And as they were being arraigned, the Judge asked the usual
question about occupation.
2
( (The first 24 men were engaged in the same profession --
each claimed to be a "fire fighter." Well, naturally, the Judge
asked the last prisoner, "And what are you?" // "Your honor," he
replied, "I'm a bootlegger." Surprised, the Judge laughed and
asked, "How's business?" 11 "It would be a lot better," he
answered, "if there weren't so many fire fighters around.
See what I mean? Even back in Prohibition, your numbers
turned the tide! // Then, as now, volunteers were the "first
responder" not only to fire -- but also accidents, floods, cave-
ins, and collapsed buildings. Then, as now, you served as the
"backbone of America" -- showing how the definition of a
successful life must include serving others. 11
Volunteer Week embodies that definition. As do your fifty
years of service to the Bethesda community. You're not fire
fighters alone -- as crucial as that is. In a larger sense,
you're also foot soldiers in a great crusade to lend a hand, tend
a wound, and help the less fortunate. //
Think of those who tutor at inner-city schools. Or give to
food banks -- I visited one yesterday. Or band together to help
the victims of crime. They, too, are foot soldiers. Whenever
there's a need. Wherever they are needed. Americans who know -
- and show -- that life means nothing without a cause larger than
ourselves. 11
Today, America's fire fighters number three million strong.
Volunteers total an estimated million. They confront issues
-
like hunger, health care, homelessness, and drug abuse. Giving
3
of their time, and hearts -- like you. In 1736, Ben Franklin
founded one of the first volunteer fire companies. Well, today
another Franklin has a word for what community service provides.
No, not Ben -- Aretha. R-E-S-P-E-C-T. // Respect for your
fellow man.
I have said I like what works. Community service works.
((I'm reminded of the writer who was once asked what he would
take if his home were on fire and he could remove only one thing.
// "I would take the fire," he replied. )) // That's the kind of
common sense a rescue squad salutes.
Today, I've come here to salute your common sense -- and
your special brand of skill and courage. You show that heroism,
American-style, is not going out of style. // So let me close by
recalling a favorite Bible verse: "Greater love hath no love
than this, that he lay down his life for his friends. " //
Serving strangers. Saving lives. Walking the path of
engagment that helps those most in need. This is America, and
the true meaning of community service. Thank you for what you've
done, and are doing. And God bless the United States of America.
#
#
#
#
APR-19-90 THU 17:47 WNN
P.01
ASHINGTON
N EWS
N
ETWORK
TELEFAX TRANSMITTAL COVER SHEET
DATE:
9/19/90
FAX #:
456-6218
COMPANY:
WHITE HOUSE RESEARCH
ATTENTION:
STEPHANIE BELSSEY
SENT BY:
WALTER GOLD
6 55 PM
TIME SENT:
5 5:40PM
DATE SENT:
4/19/90
TOTAL PAGES SENT: INCLUDING COVER SHEET: 31
NOTES:
PLEASE CONFIRM YOUR RECEIPT
OF THIS BY CALLING ME AT 628-4000
THANKS,
Walt
APR-19-90 THU 17:48 WNN
P.02
ASHINGTON
N
EWS
N
ETWORK
126 C Street NW
Washington DC 20001
(202) 628-4000 Fox: 4015
What has the Bethesda-Chevy Chase Rescue Squad accomplished in 50 years of
volunteer service to the communities it serves?
Everything from removing stranded cats from treetops to keeping people alive
sometimes with bare hands
until additional help arrives or the patient reachs
a hospital emergency room. B-CC Rescue Squad personnel have saved countless lives.
That's what their mission is here
to save lives
to ease pain and suffering
to be at the right place at the right time.
For example, the young men and women gathered here today are well trained to handle
vietims of heart attacks, the leading cause of American deaths. The geographical area
covered by this rescue squad has 20-percent more heart attacks than average, yet one
of the highest survival rates
thanks to countless "saves" by members of the
B-CC Resoue Squad.
In addition, these young volunteers
that's right, volunteers
rescue
adults and children from virtually every type of danger known. From simple falls
inside their homes
from automobile accidents
from fires
from the
river or flash floods
the rescue squad is there, well-trained and well-equipped.
Who are these rescuers? Most are bright young people, who live in the community
and either go to school or are Just starting their careers. Some are older experienced
businessmen; retirees who still have more than just time to donate. All go through
the same intense training
all have that spirit of volunteerism to help others
others who are in danger.
For every minute they spend actually on an emergency call, they spend hours in
preparation, on their own time
unpaid
training and attending drills
getting ready to live up to their original motto
"ANSWER THE CALL."
The volunteer efforts of this rescue squad
and others like it
save
...
the American taxpayers millions of dollars each year. These volunteers not only
save lives
ease pain and suffering
they give their community a sense of
security, Just by being here. Not Just for a for A few months or years but every day
and every year
for the past 50 years
and, God willing, for at least 50
more years!
Just one example of their staying power is this gentleman
David Dwyer, Chief
of the Bethesda-Chevy Chase Rescue Squad for the past 21 years. Dave has been re-elected
each and every year for 21 years because the members here have faith in his leadership
ability. Although Dave's paid Job is at the nearby National Institutes of Health, he
volunteers his expertise every night to this rescue squad. Dave Dwyer is 8 good example
of what keeps the volunteer effort alive in America. He cares
for his job
his community
and for helping others. And that
ladies and gentlemen
is what we're all here for today.
Walter Gold, Life Member
APR 19 '90 17:33 BCC RESCUE SQUAD INCA
P.1/4
BETHESDA-CHEVY CHASE RESCUE SQUAD
INC.
EMERGENCY:
MD. 911
D.C. 652-1000
5020 BATTERY LANE
BETHESDA, MARYLAND 20814
BUSINESS (301) 652-0077
GOLDEN ANNIVERSARY
FAX TRANSMITTAL SHEET
NUMBER OF PAGES (INCLUDING COVER SHEET)
4
DATE:
4/19/90
TIME:
DESTINATION INFORMATION:
TO:
Stephanie Belssey
ADDRESS:
THE WHITE HOUSE
CITY:
STATE:
ZIP:
VOICE PHONE:
FAX PHONE: 456-6218
SENDERS INFORMATION:
NAME:
Lewis German, Asst. Chief, BCC Rescue Squad
PHONE: 652-0077
DESCRIPTION OF DOCUMENT:
You may wish to extract some information from this letter.
As stated on top, it was found severs] years ago on a
bulletin board here at the station.
REMARKS:
FAX PHONE: 301-656-6523
APR 19 '90 17:33 BCC RESCUE SQUAD INCA
P.2/4
THIS IS AN ANONYMOUS LETTER THAT APPEARED ON THE BULLETIN BOARD
IN 1980. IT WAS DISCOVERED DURING A RECENT FILE CLEAN-UP.
The Rescue Squad - the most exciting and controversial thing
I've ever put into my life! Since I was knee high I've had that
natural fascination for rescue workers and fire fighters, somehow
attracted by the sense of adventure and responsibility that seems
to surround them. The thought, however, that I too could be a
part of such an organization was never more than a mind game to
me.
This summer I did what seemed to me as the impossible - I
handed in an application for the Rescue Squad. The first few
times I visited the Squad for meetings and interviews I could
already sense something special in the air - a dynamic atmosphere
that suggested that the unexpected was just waiting to happen.
The people I talked to had a lot of different things to say about
the place, but one things I kept hearing was: "I hope you've got
alot of time on your hands, because this place gets into your
blood." I just smiled at such incredible enthusiasm, thinking to
myself, that nothing could be so strong to make me want to move
into a fire house ready to ride ambulances any time of the day or
night at the expense of my family, my job, my schoolwork, and my
friends. Boy, was I wrong!
It took as long as my first duty night for me to catch the
fever. That was the first time in my life that I wore a
fireman's running gear and learned to pull a whole car apart with
a Hurst tool. It was at least 90 degrees in that garage and that
fire coat was hot as well. But I just plain forgot about that or
how tired I was from a long day's work when someone placed the
controls of those big shears into my hands and pointed at the
right front door of that old car. Here was the kind of
excitement my life had been missing!
That was only the beginning! Once I was hooked I just
couldn't seems to stay away from the place. Each time I went
there, there was something new to learn, new people to run calls
with and get to know better, and different situations to be
exposed to. No two days were alike!
There is something so reassuring and comforting conveyed to
people in emergency situations by those Rescue Squad uniforms and
you can watch the people's faces begin to relax just by your
presence. That gives you a special feeling. You know you've
been trained to do these things these people have no idea about,
and there is a great sense of security in being able to sweep
that usual helplessness aside and instead get right to work to
make a difference in someone's life. That's where human
compassion and idealism still find a place, when you can kneel
down in the midst of blood and guts without hesitation, trying to
1
APR 19 '90 17:34 BCC RESCUE SQUAD INCA
P.3/4
save what's left of a human life all on your own free time!
What do you get in return? Personal gratification: the
realization that you are doing something other people never even
dare to think about and the satisfaction of your every sense of
adventure. Nowadays it's so hard to find adventure and
excitement which are free of reckless stupidity. But speeding
through the dead of night, in a wailing ambulance, never really
knowing what you'll find at your destination, that's the kind of
challenge that seems to sweep aside the drudgery and
predictability of everyday life.
But in these assets of the Rescue Squad also lies its
greatest danger: it does get into your blood and you slowly start
judging everything else you do in terms of your life at the
Rescue Squad. School and work start losing their importance
because they don't provide that extra surge of adrenalin and they
seem so dry and abstract. Why spend hours of studying from books
when you can get right out there and watch it work in living
color.
The Rescue Squad also quickly takes over your social life.
The people you spend time with have a lot of similar interests
and motivations. These are people you have gotten to know under
special circumstances: situations of stress, panic, and human
suffering. You have watched the cope with sickness, pain, and
even death. You have shared your own strongest and weakest
moments. That creates bonds that make many friendships outside
the Rescue Squad seem trivial and superficial. They are also the
only ones who understand and sympathize with why you are spending
so much time there and neglecting many other things. So you
spend more and more time at the Rescue Squad because there you
know what's expected of you and you feel confident and secure.
You shy away from trying new and different things where you will
be forced to compete with people who have had more experience or
are just plain better at something than you are. You fill the
gaps in your life with the Rescue Squad, until your life becomes
the Rescue Squad.
This process is so gradual and subtle that you barely notice
it while it happens. When the realization finally hits you, you
find yourself caught between loving and hating the Rescue Squad.
You love the extra dimension it has put into your life and what
it has done for you on a personal level. You feel prepared to
deal with just about any possible emergency in your life. But at
the same time, you hate how easily it has caught you off guard
and started to sweep your other plans and dreams right out of
your life.
How much to put into the Rescue Squad is something everyone
has to work out for himself. What I can say, is that joining the
Rescue Squad is the most exciting and meaningful thing I've ever
2
APR 19 '90 17:35 BCC RESCUE SQUAD, INCA
P.4/4
done. Never before have I been SO oblivious to other
responsibilities and interests, and had so many friends and
family look at me in total disbelief of the lack of comprehension
as to the priorities I had set for myself. But at the same time,
I've never experienced so many new things, learned so much about
myself and others, and met so many great people. Regardless of
how much longer the Rescue Squad remains an active part of my
life, it has definitely already left its mark.
3
4/19/90 Buthusda 4942 Ruscue Squod
4950 Notl. Volunteur Fire Conneil Mrs Monition
Lewes, DE
(302) 645-9064
Federation of Vol. Firafighters Aossciations
in meeting in Iows
Buthesdo
Chief Dyer
(Smith/Blessey)
April 19, 1990
5 P.M.
VOL
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: BETHESDA RESCUE SQUAD
BETHESDA, MARYLAND
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 25, 1990
Members of the Bethesda Volunteer Rescue Squad, ladies and
gentlemen. It's a privilege to be with you. This is the first
organization I spoke to as a Vice-Presidential nominee in 1980.
I'm glad to be back.
One reason I'm so pleased to be here is that if my speech is
a disaster, relief is close at hand. // Then, too, we meet in a
special week -- Volunteer Week -- which celebrates the selfless
character of the American people. //
Volunteer Week salutes what I call this Nation's points of
light -- that vast galaxy of individuals, businesses, schools,
churches, synagogues, and voluntary associations working together
to solve problems. Your Rescue Squad is a point of light. It is
also a source of life. //
Many people don't realize that fully 85 percent of America's
fire protection is supplied by volunteers -- an amazing total.
Volunteers who meet local emergencies -- risking lives to save
other lives. Just as America's fire fighters have done for more
than 200 years.
( (You know, being here today reminds me of a story that I
heard which happened a number of years ago. It seems that 25 of
Boston's top Prohibition bootleggers were rounded up in a
2
surprise raid. And as they were being arraigned, the Judge asked
the usual question about occupation.
( (The first 24 men were engaged in the same profession --
each claimed to be a "fire fighter." Well, naturally, the Judge
asked the last prisoner, "And what are you?" // "Your honor," he
replied, "I'm a bootlegger." Surprised, the Judge laughed and
asked, "How's business?" // "It would be a lot better,' he
answered, "if there weren't so many fire fighters around. "))
See what I mean? Even back in Prohibition, your numbers
turned the tide! // Then, as now, volunteers like you were the
"first responder" not only to fire -- but also accidents, floods,
cave-ins, and collapsed buildings. Then, as now, you acted as
the "backbone of America" -- showing that any definition of a
successful life must include serving others. //
Volunteer Week embodies that definition. As do your fifty
Draft WolterGoldve from
years of service to the Bethesda community. [[Talk about
variety. You've rescued cats from treetops, and children from
smashed autos. Helping victims of heart attacks, and senior
citizens -- alone, and vulnerable -- after falls within their
home. Young kids and retirees, executives and laborers -- each
of you, to quote the squad's original motto, has "Answer[ed] the
Call."]]
[[Listen to an anonymous letter that appeared on your
bulletin board. It talked of the comfort the B-CC Rescue Squad
provides. "You can watch people's faces begin to relax just by
your presence. That gives you a special feeling." 11 And look
withme
3
at the man to my left, David Dwyer, Chief of the Squad for the
past 21 years. He symbolizes that feeling. By day, Dave works
at the National Institutes of Health. But by night, he's a
volunteer. Anywhere there is a need. Anytime he is needed. //]]
By rishing your lives to save others, you are on the front
lines. Those who directly take up the fight against drug abuse,
illiteracy, homelessness, hunger, environmental decay, and AIDS
are also on the front lines. // Like you, they are finding the
meaning and adventure that all of us seek in our own lives. We
know that life means nothing without a cause larger than
ourselves.
Fire fighting was such a cause when, in 1736, Ben Franklin
founded one of the first volunteer companies. So it is in 1990 -
- with fire fighters today three million strong. I salute you,
as does your community. But leave it to Franklin to have the
last word. No, not Ben -- Aretha. R-E-S-P-E-C-T. // We
respect, and admire, you for a job well-done.
Today, America is grateful for your special brand of skill
and courage. The courage to put another's life before one's own.
Let me close with a Bible verse that defines your lives:
"Greater love hath no love than this, that he lay down his life
for his friends. " //
You serve strangers. You save lives. You walk the path of
grant John Just,
engagment in the lives of those in need. This is America, and
the true meaning of serving others. Thank you for what you've
done, and are doing. And God bless the United States of America.
Blessey's Des
how many = 100people 1990 APR 19 PH 7: 13
(Smith/Blessey)
April 19, 1990
5 P.M.
VOL
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: BETHESDA RESCUE SQUAD
BETHESDA, MARYLAND
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 25, 1990
Aknoisledgements to be provided by Hagin on Monday
1:45p,m.
Members of the Bethesda Volunteer Rescue Squad, ladies and
One of
gentlemen. It's a privilege to be with you. This is the first
V
organization I spoke to as a Vice-Presidential nominee in 1980.
x
I'm glad to be back.
One reason I'm so pleased to be here is that if my speech is
a disaster, relief is close at hand. // Then, too, we meet in a
special week -- Volunteer Week -- which celebrates the selfless
character of the American people. //
Volunteer Week salutes what I call this Nation's points of
light -- that vast galaxy of individuals, businesses, schools,
churches, synagogues, and voluntary associations working together
to solve problems. Your Rescue Squad is a point of light. It is
also a source of life. //
80
Many people don't realize that fully 85 percent of America's
X
fire protection is supplied by volunteers -- an amazing total.
Volunteers who meet local emergencies -- risking lives to save
other lives. Just as America's fire fighters have done for more
than 200 years.
( (You know, being here today reminds me of a story that I
heard which happened mony 60 years ago. It seems that 25 of Boston's
X
top Prohibition bootleggers were rounded up in a surprise raid.
2
And as they were being arraigned, the Judge asked the usual
question about occupation.
( (The first 24 men were engaged in the same profession --
each claimed to be a "fire fighter." Well, naturally, the Judge
asked the last prisoner, "And what are you?" // "Your honor," he
replied, "I'm a bootlegger." Surprised, the Judge laughed and
asked, "How's business?" // "It would be a lot better," he
answered, "if there weren't so many fire fighters around. "))
See what I mean? Even back in Prohibition, your numbers
turned the tide! // Then, as now, volunteers like you were the
"first responder" not only to fire -- but also accidents, floods,
cave-ins, and collapsed buildings. Then, as now, you acted as
the "backbone of America" -- showing that any definition of a
successful life must include serving others. //
Volunteer Week embodies that definition. As do your fifty
years of service to the Bethesda community. By risking your
lives to save others, you are on the front lines. Those who
directly take up the fight against drug abuse, illiteracy,
homelessness, hunger, environmental decay, and AIDS are also on
the front lines. // Like you, they are finding the meaning and
adventure that all of us seek in our own lives. Like you, they
know that life means nothing without a cause larger than
ourselves.
Fire fighting was such a cause when, in 1736, Ben Franklin
founded one of the first volunteer companies. So it is in 1990 -
one
- with fire fighters today three million strong. I salute you,
3
as does your community. But leave it to Franklin to have the
last word. No, not Ben -- Aretha. R-E-S-P-E-C-T. // We
respect, and admire, you for a job well-done.
Today, America is grateful for your special brand of skill
and courage. The courage to put another's life before one's own.
Let me close with a Bible verse that defines your lives:
"Greater love hath no love than this, that he lay down his life
for his friends." 11
You serve strangers. You save lives. You walk the path of
engagment in the lives of those in need. This is America, and
the true meaning of serving others. Thank you for what you've
done, and are doing. And God bless the United States of America.
#
#
#
#
stoffed
(Smith/Blessey)
1990 APR 19 PM 7: 13
April 19, 1990
5 P.M.
VOL
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: BETHESDA RESCUE SQUAD
BETHESDA, MARYLAND
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 25, 1990
Members of the Bethesda Volunteer Rescue Squad, ladies and
thin
One ot
gentlemen. It's a privilege to be with you. This is the first
organization I spoke to as a Vice-Presidential nominee in 1980.
Dr
I'm glad to be back.
One reason I'm so pleased to be here is that if my speech is
Perrylayles
a disaster, relief is close at hand. // Then, too, we meet in a
special week -- Volunteer Week -- which celebrates the selfless
+
character of the American people. //
Volunteer Week salutes what I call this Nation's points of
light -- that vast galaxy of individuals, businesses, schools,
churches, synagogues, and voluntary associations working together
to solve problems. Your Rescue Squad is a point of light. It
is
also a source of life. //
80%
371-1277
Many people don't realize that fully 85 percent of America's
Tees
fire protection is supplied by volunteers -- an amazing total.
Volunteers who meet local emergencies -- risking lives to save
other lives. Just as America's fire fighters have done for more
than 200 years.
any
Cart
( (You know, being here today reminds me of a story that I
heard which happened MANY 60 years ago. It seems that 25 of Boston's
top Prohibition bootleggers were rounded up in a surprise raid.
726 combination
239, 905 career
21,359 volnteers
esi-8
2,199 ENTER
squads
FEMO
204,420 10%
0511
hayavay
10to
34,359
2
And as they were being arraigned, the Judge asked the usual
question about occupation.
( (The first 24 men were engaged in the same profession --
Curb
each claimed to be a "fire fighter." Well, naturally, the Judge
asked the last prisoner, "And what are you?" // "Your honor," he
replied, "I'm a bootlegger." Surprised, the Judge laughed and
asked, "How's business?" // "It would be a lot better," he
answered, "if there weren't so many fire fighters around." ) )
See what I mean? Even back in Prohibition, your numbers
turned the tide! // Then, as now, volunteers like you were the
"first responder" not only to fire -- but also accidents, floods,
cave-ins, and collapsed buildings. Then, as now, you acted as
the "backbone of America" -- showing that any definition of a
successful life must include serving others. //
Sped Volunteer Week embodies that definition. As do your fifty
years of service to the Bethesda community. By risking your
lives to save others, you are on the front lines. Those who
directly take up the fight against drug abuse, illiteracy,
homelessness, hunger, environmental decay, and AIDS are also on
the front lines. // Like you, they are finding the meaning and
adventure that all of us seek in our own lives. Like you, they
know that life means nothing without a cause larger than
ourselves.
Enrly Traditions 1
Fire fighting was such a cause when, in 1736, Ben Franklin
&
founded one of the first volunteer companies. So it is in 1990 -
with fire fighters today three million strong. I salute you,
Roser of 652-1180
1,204,420
3
as does your community. But leave it to Franklin to have the
last word. No, not Ben -- Aretha. R-E-S-P-E-C-T. // We
respect, and admire, you for a job well-done.
Today, America is grateful for your special brand of skill
and courage. The courage to put another's life before one's own.
Let me close with a Bible verse that defines your lives:
man
"Greater love hath no love than this, that he lay down his life
P MAR
Concertance
for his friends." //
You serve strangers. You save lives. You walk the path of
engagment in the lives of those in need. This is America, and
the true meaning of serving others. Thank you for what you've
done, and are doing. And God bless the United States of America.
#
#
#
#
1975
WH
HOLY BIBLE
Containing the Old and New Testaments
Authorized King James Version
Red Letter Edition
The
Open
Bible
Edition
with Read-a-long References, Read-a-long Translations,
Cyclopedic Index,
Christian Life Outlines and Study Notes
THOMAS NELSON, PUBLISHERS
NB
Nashville Camden New York
ST. JOHN 15
1006
30 Hereafter I will not talk much with
my Father's commandments, and' abide in
you: for the prince of this world cometh,
his love.
14:15
obey
live
remain
and Thath nothing in me. has no interest in me
11 These things have I spoken unto you,
31 But that the world may "know that I
that my joy might remain in you, and "that
love the Father; and as the Father gave
your joy might be full.
16:24; 1 John 1:4
me commandment, even so I do. Arise, let
12 This is my commandment, That ye
us go hence.
understand
10:18
love one another, as I have loved you.
CHAPTER 15
13 Greater love hath no man than this,
c. A.D. 30
that a man lay down his life for his friends.
The vine and the branches
14 "Ye are my friends, if ye do whatso-
I
AM the True vine, and my Father is
ever I command you.
Mat. 12:50
what
the "husbandman.
genuine
gardener
15 Henceforth I call you not servants;
2 "Every branch in me that beareth not
for the servant knoweth not what his lord
fruit he taketh away: and every branch
doeth: but I have called you friends; for
that beareth fruit, he "purgeth it, that it
all things that I have heard of my Father
may bring forth more fruit. Mat. 15:13 prunes
I have Tmade known unto you. explained
3 Now ye are "clean through the word
16 Ye have not chosen me, but I have
which I have spoken unto you.
pruned
chosen you, and "ordained" you, that ye
4 "Abide in me, and I in you. As the
should go and bring forth fruit, and that
branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except
your fruit should remain: that whatso-
it "abide in the vine; no more can ye, ex-
ever ye shall ask of the Father in my name,
cept ye abide in me. Col. 1:23 remains attached to
he may give it you. Col. 1:6 appointed abide
5 I am the vine, ye are the branches: He
"These things I command you, that ye
that abideth in me, and I in him, the same
love one another.
This, then,
bringeth forth much "fruit: for "without
The hatred of the world
me ye can do nothing. Hos. 14:8 apart from
6 If a man abide not in me, "he is cast
18 If the world hate you, ye know that
forth as a branch, and is withered; and men
it hated me before it hated you. 1 John 3:13.
gather them, and cast them into the fire,
19 If ye were of the world, the world
and they are burned.
Mat. 3:10
would love his own: but "because ye are
not of the world, but I have chosen you
VI. Does God Answer All Prayers?
out of the world, therefore the world
hateth you.
(A) 7 If ye⁺ abide in me, and my words 'abide
1 John 4:5
belonged to
17:14
20 Remember the word that I said unto
in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it
you, "The servant is not greater than his
shall be done unto you.remain attached to-affect
lord. If they have persecuted me, they will
8 "Herein is my Father "glorified, that ye
bear much fruit; "so shall ye be my dis-
also persecute you; if they have kept my
saying, they will keep yours also. Mat. 10:24
ciples.
Mat. 5:16; Phil. 1:11
honored
8:31
9 As the Father hath loved me, so have
21 But Rall these things will they do unto
I loved you: continue ye in my love.
you for my name's sake, because they
10 "If ye "keep my commandments, ye
know not him that sent me.
Mat. 10:22
shall 'abide in my love; even as I have kept
22 If I had not come and spoken unto
VI(A) The Bible is filled with answered prayers from Genesis to Revelation. You are commanded to pray,
and God has promised to answer (Jer. 33:3 OT). In the above Scripture, there are two requirements for an-
swers to prayer. First, you are to abide in Him; that is, to continue in Him. It means to remain in His perfect
will at all cost (Page 1066-Rom. 12:1,2). Second, His words are to abide in you; they are to become a vital
part of your life. You are to be filled with, and guided by, His words (Page1120-Col. 3:16,17). Meet these two
requirements, and your prayers will be answered.
(1) The answer is sometimes immediate. Peter walked on the water to go to Jesus, and as he began to
sink, he prayed, "Lord, save me." The answer was immediate (Page 903-Matt. 14:22-31).
(2) The answer is sometimes delayed. The delay is according to His will (Page 1063-Rom. 8:28). The
resurrection of Lazarus is a good example of delayed answer to prayer. Lazarus was sick. Mary and Martha
sent for Jesus to come and heal him. But Jesus delayed coming until Lazarus was dead and in the tomb for
four days. Then He came and raised Lazarus from the dead. The answer was delayed-but not denied
(Page 1000-John 11:1-44).
(3) The answer is sometimes "no." When God answers with a "no," He always accompanies the answer
with peace (Page1114-Phil. 4:6,7,) and grace (Page1096-II Cor. 12:7-10).
(4) The answer is sometimes different from what you expect. You pray for patience and God sends tribula-
tion-because "tribulation worketh patience" (Page 1059-Rom. 5:3). God answers all your prayers-not ac-
cording to your wishes, but according to His perfect will.
Now return to Master Study Outlines, Page 881, for lesson number ten.
JOSEPH NATHAN KANE
FAMOUS FIRST
FACTS * A Record of
First Happenings, Discoveries,
and Inventions in American
History * Fourth Edition
Expanded and Revised
The H.W. WILSON COMPANY New York 1981
FAMOUS FIRST FACTS
263
The First
The First
pt the fingerprinting
and were proficient in rescue work and other fire
Steam Fire engine was designed and built by
[o.) Metropolitan Po-
department procedures.
Paul Rapsey Hodge, C.E., and publicly tested
I October 28, 1904,
March 27, 1841, at the City Hall, New York. It was
0 fingerprint persons
Fire department established by municipal ac-
14 feet long and weighed about 8 tons. It had two
[ohn M. Shea was the
tion was organized in 1659 by Peter Stuyvesant,
small wheels under the boiler in front and two
int expert connected
governor of New Amsterdam, later New York. He
huge wheels at the rear. Two horses were re-
: became associated
distributed 250 leather buckets and a supply of
quired to draw it on level ground. It was placed in
litan Police Depart-
ladders and hooks which he imported from Hol-
service by Pearl Hose No. 28. It was too heavy and
ppointed Superinten-
land. A tax of one guilder for every chimney was
was abandoned because sparks poured from its
September 14, 1903.
imposed for the maintenance of this equipment.
stacks.
is death, July 17, 1926.
The fire alarm was given by the twirling of a rat-
-Fingerprinting: A
tle, with the result that the firemen became known
FIRE ESCAPES for tenements were required by
as the Rattle Watch. In 1669 the city appointed a
New York State, April 17, 1860 (Laws of New York
"brent-master," who seems to have been the first
1860, Chapter 470). A serious fire in Elm Street,
prints of its prisoners
fire chief in this country. (Industrial Fire Chief-
New York City, February 2, 1860, in which 20 per-
ing. N.Y., which com-
Foamite-Childs Corporation)
sons were suffocated or burned to death, showed
on March 3, 1903.
the necessity for this legislation.
Fire department to be paid was authorized in
FIRE EXTINGUISHER using vaporized chemical
cled by the Reverend
1697 by New York City. Two fire wardens were
was manufactured by the Pyrene Manufacturing
eported that a fire had
authorized for every ward. A penalty of 3 shillings
Company, Newark, N.J., and introduced in 1905.
in a coal mine known
was imposed upon owners for neglecting to reme-
The first model had a single-action pump, which
vhich was somewhere
dy defective flues and hearths. If a fire resulted
had to be tilted down after each stroke, in order
and the Smithfield
after warning, the fine was 40 shillings. Half of the
to suck up liquid for the next discharge stroke.
1 side of the Monon-
fee went to the wardens and half to the city.
FIRE EXTINGUISHER PATENT was awarded to
Pittsburgh now known
Fire department to be paid a salary was estab-
Alanson Crane of Fortress Monroe, Va., who ob-
tsburgh and the Pitts-
amber of Commerce)
lished by Cincinnati, Ohio, on April 1, 1853,
tained United States patent No. 37,610, February
through the efforts of Miles Greenwood. Members
10, 1863.
force took place in
of the company received $60 a year, lieutenants
FIRE HOSE of rubber-lined cotton web to replace
er 16, 1835, when 600
$100, captains $150, pipemen and drivers $365.
riveted leather hose was invented by James Boyd
1, entailing a loss of
The chief engineer received $1,000 a year and as-
of Boston, Mass., who obtained a patent May 30,
oanna Reade Lamb-
sistant engineers $300. (Charles Theodore Greve
1821, on a "new and useful improvement in the
York)
-Centennial History of Cincinnati and Represen-
mode of manufacturing fire engine hose." In 1819
tative Citizens)
ence in America oc-
he established James Boyd & Sons in Boston,
'6, when there "burned
Mass., and manufactured Boyd's Patent Double
elling houses, besides
FIRE ENGINE
Fire Engine Hose.
ouse, etc.," in Boston
Fire engine made in this country was built in
so in Boston, 80 dwell-
1654 by Joseph Jencks, an iron maker of Lynn,
FIRE INSURANCE. See Insurance
ldings were destroyed,
Mass. He made a contract with the Selectmen of
FIRE LOOKOUT TOWER. See Forest fire: Forest
ilmost $1 million. (Rev-
Boston for an "Ingine" to carry water in case of
fire lookout tower
A General History of
fire. It was a clumsy pump worked by relays of
scovery to 1680)
men at the handles. Its cistern was supplied with
FIRE PATROL
water by lines:of bucket passers. (Arthur Welling-
Fire patrol was "The Philadelphia Society for
Oil
ton Brayley-History of Boston Fire Department)
the Protection of Movable Property in Time of
Fire," organized in Philadelphia in 1819, to pre-
e. See under Theater
Fire engine that was practical was the Uncle Joe
vent theft and to salvage articles in fires. The com-
electric) was invented
Ross, invented by Alexander Bonner Latta and
pany had large baskets in which to place the
ning of Boston, Mass.,
manufactured by Latta, Shawk & Company in
articles saved and had vehicles for carrying the
r of Salem, Mass., who
1852 in Cincinnati, in the shops of John H. McGo-
baskets away.
patent No. 17,355 for "a
wan. It took nine months to build, cost $10,000,
and was tested on January 1. 1853, the date it went
Fire patrol to receive a salary was organized in
rm." The first city to
into service. It weighed five tons, was drawn by
New York City in 1835 and consisted of four men,
ton, which on June 1851
device.
four horses and its own power, and had a square
each of whom was paid a salary of $250 a year to
firebox, like that of a locomotive boiler, with a
protect property from theft and damage during
fires.
furnace open at the top, upon which the chimney
was placed. It ran on three wheels, the front one
FIRE PREVENTION LEGISLATION was enacted
sed entirely of women
revolving in the center of the car. It threw from
March 17, 1631, by Cambridge (Newtowne),
partment, Ashville, N.Y.
one to six streams of water. In a single stream 13/4
Mass., as the result of a fire the previous day in
men replaced the male
inches in diameter it threw water a distance of 240
Boston, Mass., which spread to an adjoining
1g in the armed forces or
feet. Its adoption was due principally to the efforts
house. The legislation provided that "no man
They served without
of Miles Greenwood. (History of the Cincinnati
there shall build his chimney with wood, nor
on-per-minute pumper,
Fire Department)
cover his house with thatch." (Thomas Prince-A
4/23/90 Buthisdro
Giebel will introduce
back of rescie squad in parking lot
Bonner: B-C.C. Reserve Squad
50 Years of Volunteer Service
Trucks flanking stage
short tour of station before sparch
Bloge
Dorid George Pwyer
Sidney Weldon Kramer
Morrels
21 yrs. sholl
what he calls & station for punishment
good volunteers, guests, defineds
This world but once,
II I poss through
If therefore, there con be
Dny kindness I CAR show
or Any good thing I cant do,
let mu do it now. for I
sholl not poss this way grain.
Etienne Dec Grelliet
4/18/90
Bethesto
@ Buthes & POTUS Licked sff '80 R/B compaign
50th anniversory
Don't occept any tax bedl money
do hundraising door to door
of rent out building
Resume training t CPR
Once p month each fireman must
spend the night for duty,
Messager Vohinteer fire dept- all
centers over the country are community
esp. rurol communities
talk in gent about volunteer
fine dept.
Sometimes only big bilding Arounds
Coll for NAIL Assoc.
Goll Jud.
StephB.
BETHESDA-CC RESCUE SQUAD / BETHESDA, MARYLAND
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 25, 1990 / 1:45 P.M.
PRESIDENT GIEBEL [GHEE-BULL], CHIEF DWYER, MEMBERS
OF THE BETHESDA-CHEVY CHASE VOLUNTEER RESCUE SQUAD.
CONGRESSMAN CURT WELDON, FOUNDER OF THE CONGRESSIONAL
FIRE SERVICE CAUCUS, AND MY FRIEND AND YOUR OWN
REPRESENTATIVE, CONGRESSWOMAN CONNIE MORELLA. LADIES
AND GENTLEMEN. It's A PRIVILEGE TO BE WITH YOU. THIS
IS ONE OF THE FIRST ORGANIZATIONS I SPOKE To AS A VICE-
PRESIDENTIAL NOMINEE IN 1980. I'M GLAD TO BE BACK.
- 2 -
ONE REASON I'M so PLEASED TO BE HERE IS THAT IF MY
SPEECH IS A DISASTER, RELIEF IS CLOSE AT HAND. //
THEN, Too, WE MEET IN A SPECIAL WEEK -- NATIONAL
VOLUNTEER WEEK -- WHICH CELEBRATES THE SELFLESS
CHARACTER OF THE AMERICAN PEOPLE. //
- 3 -
NATIONAL VOLUNTEER WEEK SALUTES WHAT I CALL THIS
NATION'S "POINTS OF LIGHT" -- THAT VAST GALAXY OF
INDIVIDUALS, BUSINESSES, SCHOOLS, CHURCHES, SYNAGOGUES,
AND VOLUNTARY ASSOCIATIONS WORKING TOGETHER TO SOLVE
PROBLEMS. YOUR RESCUE SQUAD IS A POINT OF LIGHT. IT
IS ALSO A SOURCE OF LIFE. //
MANY PEOPLE DON'T REALIZE THAT FULLY 80 PERCENT OF
AMERICA'S FIRE PROTECTION AND EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICE
IS SUPPLIED BY VOLUNTEERS -- AN AMAZING TOTAL.
- 4 -
VOLUNTEERS WHO MEET LOCAL EMERGENCIES -- RISKING LIVES
TO SAVE OTHER LIVES. JUST AS AMERICA'S FIRE FIGHTERS
HAVE DONE FOR MORE THAN 200 YEARS.
((You KNOW, BEING HERE TODAY REMINDS ME OF A STORY
THAT I HEARD WHICH HAPPENED A NUMBER OF YEARS AGO. IT
SEEMS THAT 25 OF BOSTON'S TOP PROHIBITION BOOTLEGGERS
WERE ROUNDED UP IN A SURPRISE RAID. AND AS THEY WERE
BEING ARRAIGNED, THE JUDGE ASKED THE USUAL QUESTION
ABOUT OCCUPATION.
- 5 -
((THE FIRST 24 MEN WERE ENGAGED IN THE SAME
PROFESSION -- EACH CLAIMED TO BE A "FIRE FIGHTER."
WELL, NATURALLY, THE JUDGE ASKED THE LAST PRISONER,
"AND WHAT ARE YOU?" // "Your HONOR," HE REPLIED, "I'm
A BOOTLEGGER." SURPRISED, THE JUDGE LAUGHED AND ASKED,
"How's BUSINESS?" // "IT WOULD BE A LOT BETTER," HE
ANSWERED, "IF THERE WEREN'T SO MANY FIRE FIGHTERS
AROUND. "))
- 6 -
SEE WHAT I MEAN? EVEN BACK IN PROHIBITION, YOUR
NUMBERS TURNED THE TIDE! // THEN, AS NOW, VOLUNTEERS
LIKE YOU WERE THE "FIRST RESPONDER" NOT ONLY TO FIRE --
BUT ALSO ACCIDENTS, FLOODS, CAVE-INS, AND COLLAPSED
BUILDINGS. THEN, AS NOW, YOU ACTED AS THE "BACKBONE OF
AMERICA" -- SHOWING THAT ANY DEFINITION OF A SUCCESSFUL
LIFE MUST INCLUDE SERVING OTHERS. //
- 7 -
NATIONAL VOLUNTEER WEEK EMBODIES THAT DEFINITION.
As DO YOUR FIFTY YEARS OF SERVICE TO THE BETHESDA-CHEVY
CHASE COMMUNITY. TALK ABOUT VARIETY. YOU'VE RESCUED
CATS FROM TREETOPS, AND CHILDREN FROM SMASHED AUTOS.
HELPING VICTIMS OF HEART ATTACKS, AND SENIOR CITIZENS
-- ALONE AND VULNERABLE -- AFTER FALLS WITHIN THEIR
HOME. YOUNG KIDS AND RETIREES, EXECUTIVES AND LABORERS
-- EACH OF YOU, TO QUOTE THE SQUAD'S ORIGINAL MOTTO,
HAS "ANSWER[ED] THE CALL." //
- 8 -
LISTEN TO AN ANONYMOUS LETTER THAT APPEARED ON YOUR
BULLETIN BOARD. IT TALKED OF THE COMFORT THE B-CC
RESCUE SQUAD PROVIDES. "You CAN WATCH PEOPLE'S FACES
BEGIN TO RELAX JUST BY YOUR PRESENCE. THAT GIVES YOU A
SPECIAL FEELING." // AND LOOK AT THE MAN WITH ME,
DAVID DWYER, CHIEF OF THE SQUAD FOR THE PAST 21 YEARS.
HE'S ONE OF THE HEROES RESPONSIBLE FOR THAT FEELING.
- 9 -
BY DAY, DAVE WORKS AT THE NATIONAL INSTITUTES OF
HEALTH. BUT BY NIGHT, HE'S A VOLUNTEER. ANYWHERE
THERE IS A NEED. ANYTIME HE IS NEEDED. //
BY RISKING YOUR LIVES TO SAVE OTHERS, YOU ARE ON
THE FRONT LINES. THOSE WHO DIRECTLY TAKE UP THE FIGHT
AGAINST DRUG ABUSE, ILLITERACY, HOMELESSNESS, HUNGER,
ENVIRONMENTAL DECAY, AND AIDS ARE ALSO ON THE FRONT
LINES. // LIKE YOU, THEY ARE FINDING THE MEANING AND
ADVENTURE THAT ALL OF US SEEK IN OUR OWN LIVES.
- 10 -
WE KNOW THAT LIFE MEANS NOTHING WITHOUT A CAUSE LARGER
THAN OURSELVES.
FIRE FIGHTING WAS SUCH A CAUSE WHEN, IN 1736, BEN
FRANKLIN FOUNDED ONE OF THE FIRST VOLUNTEER COMPANIES.
So IT IS IN 1990 -- WITH FIRE FIGHTERS AND E.M.S.
PERSONNEL TODAY ONE MILLION STRONG. I SALUTE YOU, AS
DOES YOUR COMMUNITY. WE RESPECT, AND ADMIRE, YOU FOR A
JOB WELL-DONE.
- 11 -
TODAY, AMERICA IS GRATEFUL FOR YOUR SPECIAL BRAND
OF SKILL AND COURAGE. THE COURAGE To PUT ANOTHER'S
LIFE BEFORE ONE'S OWN. LET ME CLOSE WITH A BIBLE VERSE
THAT DEFINES YOUR LIVES: "GREATER LOVE HATH NO MAN
THAN THIS, THAN A MAN LAY DOWN HIS LIFE FOR HIS
FRIENDS." //
You, AND COUNTLESS THOUSANDS OF OTHERS LIKE YOU
AROUND THIS GREAT COUNTRY, SERVE STRANGERS. You SAVE
LIVES.
- 12 - -
You WALK THE PATH OF ENGAGEMENT IN THE LIVES OF THOSE
IN NEED. THIS IS AMERICA, AND THE TRUE MEANING OF
SERVING OTHERS. THANK YOU FOR WHAT YOU'VE DONE, AND
ARE DOING. AND GOD BLESS THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.
# # # #
Walter Gold
Asso. Germany Chief
Lynis
lifetime member
Wpsh- 628- News Retwork
THE WHITE house
washington
Roger Lanahan