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Fire Service Dinner, Washington, DC 4/12/89 [OA 8130]
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FOIA Number:
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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:
Smith, Curt, Files
Subseries:
Chron File, 1989-1992
OA/ID Number:
13888
Folder ID Number:
13888-006
Folder Title:
Fire Service Dinner, Washington D.C., 4/12/89
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18
29
1
4
Bill Roper
(Smith/Dooley)
March 31, 1989
Draft Three
FIRE
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: FIRE SERVICE DINNER
SHERATON WASHINGTON HOTEL
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 12, 1989
Members of the fire service community, ladies and gentlemen,
friends.
Thank you for that warm introduction, and for your generous
reception. It is a great privilege to be
and please
forgive me
with such extinguished company. Indeed, you
might say that I'm all fired-up for the occasion.
Let me, first, congratulate some of those responsible for
this evening.
I'm referring, of course, to the International Associations
of Fire Chiefs and Fire Fighters, the International Society of
Fire Service Instructors, the National Fire Protection
Association and National Volunteer Fire Council, and the
Volunteer Firemen's Insurance Services.
I want to also salute the more than 2,000 representatives
here of the fire service community, and the members of the
Congressional Fire Service Caucus -- now, the third-largest
congressional caucus on all of Capital Hill. And let me say a
-2-
special thanks to the fire fighter's best friend, Congressman
Curt Weldon.
Finally, I want to say that you've chosen a wonderful time
of year to hold this first annual Congressional Fire Services
Institute Dinner.
After all, just think of it. Spring is in the air
Millie has had her puppies
Washington is alive with
visitors
and baseball's Orioles are still in the pennant
race. Of course, the season is one week old.
We meet, together, in a special week. For this is Volunteer
Week, a time which celebrates the selfless character of the
American people.
Looking toward tonight, I was struck by the fact that 85 per
cent of our Nation's fire protection is supplied by volunteers.
And it occured to me that both you and your paid colleagues --
for both give of your time, and of yourselves -- provide the
definition of a successful life.
For a successful life, it seems to me, must include serving
others. A successful life states that we are partners, not
islands unto ourselves -- the sum not of our possessions, but of
how we treat our neighbors.
-3-
Well, for more than 200 years, fire fighters have been this
Nation's neighbor -- in word and deed, "the backbone of America."
You have met local emergencies through volunteer and paid fire
and emergency service networks. And today, you meet them still
-- 3 million members strong.
You know, being here reminds me of a story that I heard
which happened back in Prohibition days.
It seems that 25 of Boston's top bootleggers were rounded up
in a 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'm getting at? Even back in Prohibition, your
numbers turned the tide! And so they can today, and must too in
the future. We've come a long way since Benjamin Franklin
founded one of the first volunteer fire companies in 1736. Now,
let us go forward, and help achieve your goal: a better, more
secure, more fire-safe America.
-4-
Toward that end, let me share some thoughts.
First, this Administration believes the fire service network
deserves a Federal government which understands and values its
place in the American family.
Almost every municipality has some sort of emergency fire
organization. At the 4th of July centennial, or Memorial Day
parade, the fire service is there. At senior citizens centers
and service clubs, the fire service is there. When fire raged at
Yellowstone, the fire service was there. And so, too, when you
become the "first responder" not only to fire, but to accidents,
floods, cave-ins, and collapsed buildings. You deserve the
government's respect. In my Administration, you have it.
Second, this Administration believes you deserve the
government's support. Fifteen years ago, the National Fire
Prevention and Control Administration was created. Finally, you
thought, your concerns would be heard by every level of
government. Well, too often that didn't happen, and you felt
shunted to the sidelines. My friends, under this Administration,
we're returning -- together -- to the center of the field.
Tonight, I call for restoring the U.S. Fire Administration
to its rightful role as the fire service's Federal advocate. And
for a national clearinghouse to deal with fire service issues.
We want the National Fire Academy to regain its identity and
-5-
prominence as a "national training center." And for the Federal
Fire Act of 1974 to be restored to its original intent.
You know, few professions display that special brand of
skill and heroism that is found in the fire service. I'm
thinking, for example, of how last May, Richard Shiah [SHY-a], an
off-duty Battalion Chief, arrived at the scene of a burning
pickup truck that was overturned in a ditch. With no protective
clothing on him, he risked his life, and suffered second-degree
burns on his face and wrists, to save a father and two sons.
Battalion Chief Shiah shows that heroism, American-style, is
not going out of style. Tonight, let us pledge that it never
will. And to achieve that goal, let us act, specifically, to
help the fire services in protecting our citizens from loss of
life and property.
Each year more than 6,000 lives are lost in fires, and over
$10 billion lost in property damage. And, last year, as part of
the Omnibus Drug Act of 1988, we raised the death benefit for
fallen fire fighters from $50,000 to $100,000. No, it's not
enough. It can never be enough. For no price can be attached to
the life of a heroic American.
But in other ways, prices can be attached. For example, I
believe that funds appropriated by Congress for "fire programs"
at the Fire Emergency Training Center should be used for that
-6-
program and not for non-fire related programs. We need increased
Federal help concerning regulations which govern the
2
transportation of hazardous materials. And we must must foster
greater public awareness of fire problems by supporting the
Federal fire safety program.
All this, we can, and must, achieve. And as we do, we' 11
show how volunteerism can join hands with government to renew the
promise of America.
That is why I have opened the Office of National Service.
This Office is leading my Administration's community and national
service programs. Next month, I will send legislation to the
Congress proposing our Administration's Y-E-S or YES Program --
Youth Entering Service. And yesterday, I saluted the 18
recipients of the 1989 President's Volunteer Action Awards.
I have said I like what works. Volunteerism works.
In a recent Gallup Poll, nearly 50 per cent of those interviewed
were involved in community service -- that's up from 31 per cent
in 1984. Today, millions of people are lending a hand, tending a
wound, and helping the less fortunate -- in a homeless shelter,
an inner-city school, and in our fire and emergency services.
As some of may know, Teddy Roosevelt is among my favorite
Presidents. And recently I came across some words spoken on the
eve of his 16th birthday. "All that gives me most pleasure in
-7-
the retrospect is concerned with others," said Theodore
Roosevelt, Sr. And then Teddy's father went on to add, "We are
not placed here to live exclusively for ourselves. "
My friends, you, as well as anyone, embody those words. By
saving lives, you have defined a successful life. You have truly
"Done Unto Others."
For that, I thank you -- and yet I challenge you, too. Yes,
let us achieve a fire-safe America. Let us weave the social
fabric of America. And as we do, Americans will say what I do
tonight: "The horizons of America have no limit. The best for
America still lies ahead.' "
Thank you for this evening, and for inviting me. God bless
you, and God bless America.
#
#
#
#
(Smith/Dooley)
April 5,1989
Draft Four
FIRE
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: FIRE SERVICE DINNER
SHERATON WASHINGTON HOTEL
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 12, 1989
Members of the fire service community, ladies and gentlemen,
friends.
You know, it's been said that politicians, like fire
fighters, are often misunderstood. Well, let me observe that I
resemble that charge. It is a great privilege to be
...
please
forgive me
in such extinguished company. Indeed, you might
say that I'm all fired-up for the occasion.
Seriously, I want to thank you for that warm introduction,
and for your generous reception. And let me, first, congratulate
some of those responsible for this evening.
I'm referring, of course, to the International Associations
of Fire Chiefs and Fire Fighters, the International Society of
Fire Service Instructors, the National Fire Protection
Association and National Volunteer Fire Council, and the
Volunteer Firemen's Insurance Services.
I want to also salute the more than 2,000 representatives
here of the fire service community, and the members of the
-2-
Congressional Fire Service Caucus -- now, the third-largest
0
congressional caucus on Capital Hill. And let me say a special
thanks to the fire fighter's best friend, Congressman Curt
Weldon.
Finally, I want to say that you've chosen a wonderful time
of year to hold this first annual Congressional Fire Services
Institute Dinner.
After all, just think of it. Spring is in the air
Millie has had her puppies
...
Washington is alive with
visitors
and baseball's Orioles are still in the pennant
race. Of course, the season is one week old.
We meet, together, in a special week. For this is Volunteer
Week, a time which celebrates the selfless character of the
American people.
Looking toward tonight, I was struck by the fact that 85 per
cent of our Nation's fire protection is supplied by volunteers.
And it occured to me that both you and your paid colleagues --
for both give of your time, and of yourselves -- provide the
definition of a successful life.
For a successful life, it seems to me, must include serving
others. A successful life states that we are partners, not
-3-
islands unto ourselves -- the sum not of our possessions, but of
how we treat our neighbors.
Well, for more than 200 years, fire fighters have been this
Nation's neighbor -- in word and deed, "the backbone of America."
You have met local emergencies through volunteer and paid fire
and emergency service networks. And today, you meet them still
-- three million members strong.
You know, being here reminds me of a story that I heard
which happened back in Prohibition days.
It seems that 25 of Boston's top bootleggers were rounded up
in a 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'm getting at? Even back in Prohibition, your
numbers turned the tide! And so they can today, and must too in
the future. We've come a long way since Benjamin Franklin
founded one of the first volunteer fire companies in 1736. Now,
-4-
let us go forward, and help achieve your goal: a better, more
secure, more fire-safe America.
Toward that end, let me share some thoughts.
First, this Administration believes the fire service network
deserves a Federal government which understands and values its
place in the American family.
Almost every municipality has some sort of emergency fire
organization. At the 4th of July centennial, or Memorial Day
parade, the fire service is there. At senior citizens centers
and service clubs, the fire service is there. When fire raged at
Yellowstone, the fire service was there. And so, too, when you
become the "first responder" not only to fire, but to accidents,
floods, cave-ins, and collapsed buildings. You deserve the
government's respect. In my Administration, you have it.
Second, this Administration believes you deserve the
government's support. Fifteen years ago, the National Fire
Prevention and Control Administration was created. Finally, you
thought, your concerns would be heard by every level of
government. Well, too often that didn't happen, and you felt
shunted to the sidelines. My friends, under this Administration,
we're returning -- together -- to the center of the field.
-5-
Tonight, I call for restoring the U.S. Fire Administration
to its rightful role as the fire service's Federal advocate. And
for a national clearinghouse to deal with fire service issues.
We want the National Fire Academy to regain its identity and
prominence as a "national training center." And for the Federal
Fire Act of 1974 to be restored to its original intent.
You know, every profession has its ups and downs. Perhaps
former hockey coach Harry Neale put it best: "Last season we
couldn't win at home and we were losing on the road," he said.
"My failure as a coach was that I couldn't think of anyplace else
to play. "
But the difference is that few professions display that
special brand of skill and heroism that is found in the fire
service.
I'm thinking, for example, of how last May, Richard Shiah
[SHY-a], an off-duty Battalion Chief, arrived at the scene of a
burning pickup truck that was overturned in a ditch. With no
protective clothing on him, he risked his life, and suffered
second-degree burns on his face and wrists, to save a father and
two sons.
Battalion Chief Shiah shows -- like every fire fighter --
that heroism, American-style, is not going out of style.
Tonight, let us pledge that it never will. And to achieve that
-6-
goal, let us act, specifically, to help the fire services in
protecting our citizens from loss of life and property.
Each year more than 6,000 lives are lost in fires, and over
$10 billion lost in property damage. And, last year, as part of
the Omnibus Drug Act of 1988, we raised the death benefit for
fallen fire fighters from $50,000 to $100,000. No, it's not
enough. It can never be enough. For no price can be attached to
the life of a heroic American.
But in other ways, prices can be attached. For example, I
believe that funds appropriated by Congress for fire programs"
at the Fire Emergency Training Center should be used for that
program and not for non-fire related programs. And we must must
foster greater public awareness of fire problems by supporting
the Federal fire safety program.
All this, we can, and must, achieve. And as we do, we'll
show how volunteerism can join hands with government to renew the
promise of America.
That is why I have opened the Office of National Service.
This Office is leading my Administration's community and national
service programs. Next month, I will send legislation to the
Congress proposing our Administration's Y-E-S or YES Program --
Youth Entering Service. And yesterday, I saluted the 18
recipients of the 1989 President's Volunteer Action Awards.
-7-
I have said I like what works. Volunteerism works.
In a recent Gallup Poll, nearly 50 per cent of those interviewed
were involved in community service -- that's up from 31 per cent
in 1984. Today, millions of people are lending a hand, tending a
wound, and helping the less fortunate -- in a homeless shelter,
an inner-city school, and in our fire and emergency services.
As some of may know, Teddy Roosevelt is among my favorite
Presidents. And recently I came across some words spoken on the
eve of his 16th birthday. "All that gives me most pleasure in
the retrospect is concerned with others," said Theodore
Roosevelt, Sr. And then Teddy's father went on to add, "We are
not placed here to live exclusively for ourselves."
My friends, you, as well as anyone, embody those words. By
saving lives, you have defined a successful life. You have
lived, as much as possible, by the tenets of the Golden Rule.
For that, I thank you -- and yet I challenge you, too. Yes,
let us build on our beginnings. Let us achieve a fire-safe
America. And as we do, Americans will say what I do tonight:
"The horizons of America have no limit. The best for America
still lies ahead."
Thank you for this evening, and for inviting me. God bless
you, and God bless America.
# # # #
(Smith/Dooley)
April 5,1989
Draft Four
FIRE
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: FIRE SERVICE DINNER
SHERATON WASHINGTON HOTEL
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 12, 1989
Members of the fire service community, ladies and gentlemen,
friends.
You know, it's been said that politicians, like fire
fighters, are often misunderstood. Well, let me observe that I
resemble that charge. It is a great privilege to be
please
forgive me
in such extinguished company. Indeed, you might
say that I'm all fired-up for the occasion.
Seriously, I want to thank you for that kind introduction,
and for your generous reception. And let me, first, congratulate
some of those responsible for this evening.
I'm referring, of course, to the International Associations
of Fire Chiefs and Fire Fighters, the International Society of
Fire Service Instructors, the National Fire Protection
Association and National Volunteer Fire Council, and the
Volunteer Firemen's Insurance Services.
I want to also salute the more than 2,000 representatives
here of the fire service community, and the members of the
-2-
Congressional Fire Service Caucus -- now, the third-largest
congressional caucus on Capitol Hill. And let me say a special
thanks to the fire fighter's best friend, Congressman Curt
Weldon.
Finally, I want to say that you've chosen a wonderful time
of year to hold this first annual Congressional Fire Services
Institute Dinner.
After all, just think of it. Spring is in the air
Millie has had her puppies
Washington is alive with
visitors
and baseball's Orioles are still in the pennant
race. Of course, the season is one week old.
We meet, together, in a special week. For this is Volunteer
Week, a time which celebrates the selfless character of the
American people.
Looking toward tonight, I was struck by the fact that 85 per
cent of our Nation's fire protection is supplied by volunteers.
And it occured to me that both you and your paid colleagues --
for both give of your time, and of yourselves -- provide the
definition of a successful life.
For a successful life, it seems to me, must include serving
others. A successful life states that we are partners, not
-3-
islands unto ourselves -- the sum not of our possessions, but of
how we treat our neighbors.
Well, for more than 200 years, fire fighters have been this
Nation's neighbor -- in word and deed, "the backbone of America."
You have met local emergencies through volunteer and paid fire
and emergency service networks. And today, you meet them still
-- three million members strong.
You know, being here reminds me of a story that I heard
which happened back in Prohibition days.
It seems that 25 of Boston's top bootleggers were rounded up
in a 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'm getting at? Even back in Prohibition, your
numbers turned the tide! And so they can today, and must too in
the future. We've come a long way since Benjamin Franklin
founded one of the first volunteer fire companies in 1736. Now,
-4-
let us go forward, and help achieve your goal: a better, more
secure, more fire-safe America.
Toward that end, let me share some thoughts.
First, this Administration believes the fire service network
deserves a Federal government which understands and values its
place in the American family.
Almost every municipality has some sort of emergency fire
organization. At the 4th of July centennial, or Memorial Day
parade, the fire service is there. At senior citizens centers
and service clubs, the fire service is there. When fire raged at
Yellowstone, the fire service was there. And so, too, when you
become the "first responder" not only to fire, but to accidents,
floods, cave-ins, and collapsed buildings. You deserve the
government's respect. In my Administration, you have it.
Second, this Administration believes you deserve the
government's support. Fifteen years ago, the National Fire
Prevention and Control Administration was created. Finally, you
thought, your concerns would be heard by every level of
government. Well, too often that didn't happen, and you felt
shunted to the sidelines. My friends, under this Administration,
we're returning -- together -- to the center of the field.
-5-
Tonight, I call for restoring the U.S. Fire Administration
to its rightful role as the fire service's Federal advocate. And
for a national clearinghouse to deal with fire service issues.
We want the National Fire Academy to regain its identity and
prominence as a "national training center." And for the Federal
Fire Act of 1974 to be restored to its original intent.
You know, every profession has its ups and downs. Perhaps
former hockey coach Harry Neale put it best: "Last season we
couldn't win at home and we were losing on the road," he said.
"My failure as a coach was that I couldn't think of anyplace else
to play.' "
But the difference is that few professions display that
special brand of skill and heroism that is found in the fire
service.
I'm thinking, for example, of how last May, Richard Shiah
[SHY-a], an off-duty Battalion Chief, arrived at the scene of a
burning pickup truck that was overturned in a ditch. With no
protective clothing on him, he risked his life, and suffered
second-degree burns on his face and wrists, to save a father and
two sons.
Battalion Chief Shiah shows -- like every fire fighter --
that heroism, American-style, is not going out of style.
Tonight, let us pledge that it never will. And to achieve that
-6-
goal, let us act, specifically, to help the fire services in
protecting our citizens from loss of life and property.
Each year more than 6,000 lives are lost in fires, and over
$10 billion lost in property damage. And, last year, as part of
the Omnibus Drug Act of 1988, we raised the death benefit for
fallen fire fighters from $50,000 to $100,000. No, it's not
enough. It can never be enough. For no price can be attached to
the life of a heroic American.
But in other ways, prices can be attached. For example, I
believe that funds appropriated by Congress for "fire programs"
at the Fire Emergency Training Center should be used for that
program and not for non-fire related programs. And we must must
foster greater public awareness of fire problems by supporting
the Federal fire safety program.
All this, we can, and must, achieve. And as we do, we'll
show how volunteerism can join hands with government to renew the
promise of America.
That is why I have opened the Office of National Service.
This Office is leading my Administration's community and national
service programs. Next month, I will send legislation to the
Congress proposing our Administration's Y-E-S or YES Program --
Youth Entering Service. And yesterday, I saluted the 18
recipients of the 1989 President's Volunteer Action Awards.
-7-
I have said I like what works. Volunteerism works.
In a recent Gallup Poll, nearly 50 per cent of those interviewed
were involved in community service -- that's up from 31 per cent
in 1984. Today, millions of people are lending a hand, tending a
wound, and helping the less fortunate -- in a homeless shelter,
an inner-city school, and in our fire and emergency services.
As some of may know, Teddy Roosevelt is among my favorite
Presidents. And recently I came across some words spoken on the
eve of his 16th birthday. "All that gives me most pleasure in
the retrospect is concerned with others," said Theodore
Roosevelt, Sr. And then Teddy's father went on to add, "We are
not placed here to live exclusively for ourselves.
My friends, you, as well as anyone, embody those words. By
saving lives, you have defined a successful life. You have
lived, as much as possible, by the tenets of the Golden Rule.
For that, I thank you -- and yet I challenge you, too. Yes,
let us build on our beginnings. Let us achieve a fire-safe
America. And as we do, Americans will say what I do tonight:
"The horizons of America have no limit. The best for America
still lies ahead."
Thank you for this evening, and for inviting me. God bless
you, and God bless America.
#
#
#
#