Bart Gordon

Mr. GORDON

Mr. GORDON. Mr. Speaker, I am taking this opportunity to applaud the invaluable services provided by the Rutherford County Rescue Squad. These brave, civic-minded people give freely of their time so that should disaster strike, we know that our friends and neighbors are there to help. Few realize the depth of training and hard work that goes into being a member of the rescue squad. Rescue squad members undergo a training series over a 4- to 6-month period which includes instruction in cardiopulmonary resuscitation [CPR], vehicle extrication, emergency driving, and rescue orientation. In addition to this training, rescue squad members also meet monthly to address business concerns as well as hear guest speakers. Rescue squad members are volunteers. They receive no pay for what they do. What also makes their service especially outstanding is that the organizations themselves receive no funding. They receive no funding from the city, the county, or the Federal Government. Rescue squads are funded in the same spirit of community volunteerism which moves them to serve. Family, friends, and neighbors pitch in at bake sales, road blocks, and fish frys to help those who sacrifice their time for the benefit of the whole community. Committing such an amount of spare time and energy to a job so emotionally and physically taxing requires a sense of devotion and duty for which we are all grateful.

Mr. GORDON

Mr. GORDON. Mr. Chairman, today's debate is a classic example of the cliche that everything has been said, it is just everyone has not had a chance to say it. In that tradition, let me give my quick synopsis of how I view this debate, what it is about and what it is not about. It certainly is not about smoking. It certainly has nothing to do with reducing the size of Government. It has nothing to do with tobacco company products. What does it have to do with? Well, if the Durbin amendment passes, it has to do a lot with American jobs, the loss of American jobs. If the Durbin amendment passes, then there is going to be a lot of small tobacco farmers that are going to go out of business. Now, how does this affect the tobacco companies; fine with them, foreign tobacco is cheaper anyway. So their profit goes up. As a matter of fact, it is cheaper to produce cigarettes offshore, so let us just go offshore and produce them and you save even more money. There are more American jobs that go offshore. Let us make no mistake about this debate today. It has nothing to do with smoking. It has nothing to do with reducing the size of Government. It has to do with jobs, American jobs. A vote for the Durbin amendment means shipping American farming jobs overseas, American manufacturing jobs overseas. A vote against the amendment means keeping those jobs here in America. That is what this debate is all about.

Mr. GORDON

Mr. GORDON. Mr. Speaker, I am taking this opportunity to applaud the invaluable services provided by the Red Boiling Springs Fire and Rescue Squad. These brave, civic-minded people give freely of their time so that should disaster strike, we know that our friends and neighbors are there to help. Few realize the depth of training and hard work that goes into being a member of the rescue squad. Rescue squad members undergo a training series over a 4- to 6-month period which includes instruction in Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation [CPR], vehicle extrication, emergency driving, and rescue orientation. In addition to this training, rescue squad members also meet monthly to address business concerns as well as hear guest speakers. Rescue squad members are volunteers. They receive no pay for what they do. What also makes their service especially outstanding is that the organizations themselves receive no funding. They receive no funding from the city, the county, or the Federal Government. Rescue squads are funded in the same spirit of community volunteerism which move them to serve. Family, friends, and neighbors pitch in at bake sales, road blocks, and fish frys to help those who sacrifice their time for the benefit of the whole community. Committing such an amount of spare time and energy to a job so emotionally and physically taxing requires a sense of devotion and duty for which we are all grateful.

Mr. GORDON

Mr. GORDON. Mr. Speaker, I am taking this opportunity to applaud the invaluable services provided by the Cannon County Rescue Squad. These brave, civic minded people give freely of their time so that should disaster strike, we know that our friend and neighbors are there to help. Few realize the depth of training and hard work that goes into being a member of the rescue squad. Rescue squad members undergo a training series over a four to six month period which includes instruction in cardiopulmonary resuscitation [CPR], vehicle extrication, emergency driving, and rescue orientation. In addition to this training, rescue squad members also meet monthly to address business concerns as well as hear guest speakers. Rescue squad members are volunteers. They receive no pay for what they do. What also makes their service especially outstanding is that the organizations themselves receive no funding. They receive no funding from the city, the county, or the Federal Government. Rescue squads are funded in the same spirit of community volunteerism which moves them to serve. Family, friends, and neighbors pitch in at bake sales, road blocks, and fish frys to help those who sacrifice their time for the benefit of the whole community. Committing such an amount of spare time and energy to a job so emotionally and physically taxing requires a sense of devotion and duty for which we are all grateful.

Mr. GORDON

Mr. GORDON. Mr. Speaker, I am taking this opportunity to applaud the invaluable services provided by the Davidson County Rescue Squad. These brave, civic-minded people give freely of their time so that should disaster strike, we know that our friends and neighbors are there to help. Few realize the depth of training and hard work that goes into being a member of the rescue squad. Rescue squad members undergo a training series over a 4- to 6-month period which includes instruction in cardiopulmonary resuscitation [CPR], vehicle extrication, emergency driving, and rescue orientation. In addition to this training, rescue squad members also meet monthly to address business concerns as well as hear guest speakers. Rescue squad members are volunteers. They receive no pay for what they do. What also makes their service especially outstanding is that the organizations themselves receive no funding. They receive no funding from the city, the county, or the Federal Government. Rescue squads are funded in the same spirit of community volunteerism which moves them to serve. Family, friends, and neighbors pitch in at bake sales, road blocks, and fish frys to help those who sacrifice their time for the benefit of the whole community. Committing such an amount of spare time and energy to a job so emotionally and physically taxing requires a sense of devotion and duty for which we are all grateful.

Mr. GORDON

Mr. GORDON. Mr. Speaker, I am taking this opportunity to applaud the invaluable services provided by the Sumner County Volunteer Fire Department. These brave, civic-minded people give freely of their time so that we may all feel safer at night. Few realize the depth of training and hard work that goes into being a volunteer fire fighter. To quote one of my local volunteers, ``These firemen must have an overwhelming desire to do for others while expecting nothing in return.'' Preparation includes twice-monthly training programs in which they have live drills, study the latest videos featuring the latest in firefighting tactics, as well as attend seminars where they can obtain the knowledge they need to save lives. Within a year of becoming a volunteer firefighter, most attend the Tennessee Fire Training School in Murfreesboro where they undergo further, intensified training. When the residents of my district go to bed at night, they know that should disaster strike and their home catch fire, well-trained and qualified volunteer fire departments are ready and willing to give so graciously and generously of themselves. This peace of mind should not be taken for granted. By selflessly giving of themselves, they ensure a safer future for us all. We owe these volunteer fire departments a debt of gratitude for their service and sacrifice.

Mr. GORDON

Mr. GORDON. Mr. Speaker, I am taking this opportunity to applaud the invaluable services provided by the Fairview Volunteer Fire Department. These brave, civic-minded people give freely of their time so that we may feel safer at night. Few realize the depth of training and hard work that goes into being a volunteer firefighter. To quote one of my local volunteers, ``These firemen must have an overwhelming desire to do for others while expecting nothing in return.'' Preparation includes twice-monthly training programs in which they have live drills, study the latest videos featuring the latest in firefighting tactics, as well as attend seminars where they can obtain the knowledge they need to save lives. Within a year of becoming a volunteer firefighter, most attend the Tennessee fire training school in Murfreesboro where they undergo further, intensified training. When the residents of my district go to bed at night, they know that should disaster strike and their home catch fire, well-trained and qualified volunteer fire departments are ready and willing to give so graciously and generously of themselves. This peace of mind should not be taken for granted. By selflessly giving of themselves, they ensure a safer future for us all. We owe these volunteer fire departments a debt of gratitude for their service and sacrifice.

Mr. GORDON

Mr. GORDON. Mr. Speaker, I am taking this opportunity to applaud the invaluable services provided by the Macon County Rescue Squad. These brave, civic minded people give freely of their time so that should disaster strike, we know that our friends and neighbors are there to help. Few realize the depth of training and hard work that goes into being a member of the rescue squad. Rescue squad members undergo a training series over a four to six month period which includes instruction in Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation [CPR], vehicle extrication, emergency driving, and rescue orientation. In addition to this training, rescue squad members also meet monthly to address business concerns as well as hear guest speakers. Rescue squad members are volunteers. They receive no pay for what they do. What also makes their services especially outstanding is that the organizations themselves receive no funding. They receive no funding from the city, the county, or the Federal Government. Rescue squads are funded in the same spirit of community volunteerism which moves them to serve. Family, friends, and neighbors pitch in at bake sales, road blocks, and fish frys to help those who sacrifice their time for the benefit of the whole community. Committing such an amount of spare time and energy to a job so emotionally and physically taxing requires a sense of devotion and duty for which we are all grateful.

Mr. GORDON

Mr. GORDON. Mr. Speaker, I am taking this opportunity to applaud the invaluable services provided by the Overton County Rescue Squad. These brave, civic-minded people give freely of their time so that should disaster strike, we know that our friends and neighbors are there to help. Few realize the depth of training and hard work that goes into being a member of the rescue squad. Rescue squad members undergo a training series over a 4 to 6 month period which includes instruction in Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation [CPR], vehicle extrication, emergency driving, and rescue orientation. In addition to this training, rescue squad members also meet monthly to address business concerns as well as hear guest speakers. Rescue squad members are volunteers. They receive no pay for what they do. What also makes their service especially outstanding is that the organizations themselves receive no funding. They receive no funding from the city, the county, or the Federal Government. Rescue squads are funded in the same spirit of community volunteerism which moves them to serve. Family, friends, and neighbors pitch in at bake sales, road blocks, and fish frys to help those who sacrifice their time for the benefit of the whole community. Committing such an amount of spare time and energy to a job so emotionally and physically taxing requires a sense of devotion and duty for which we are all grateful.

Mr. GORDON

Mr. GORDON. Mr. Speaker, I am taking this opportunity to applaud the invaluable services provided by the La Vergne Rescue Squad. These brave, civic-minded people give freely of their time so that should disaster strike, we know that our friends and neighbors are there to help. Few realize the depth of training and hard work that goes into being a member of the rescue squad. Rescue squad members undergo a training series over a four- to six-month period which includes instruction in Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation [CPR], vehicle extrication, emergency driving, and rescue orientation. In addition to this training, rescue squad members also meet monthly to address business concerns as well as hear guest speakers. Rescue squad members are volunteers. They receive no pay for what they do. What also makes their service especially outstanding is that the organizations themselves receive no funding. They receive no funding from the city, the county, or the Federal Government. Rescue squads are funded in the same spirit of community volunteerism which moves them to serve. Family, friends, and neighbors pitch in at bake sales, road blocks, and fish frys to help those who sacrifice their time for the benefit of the whole community. Committing such an amount of spare time and energy to a job so emotionally and physically taxing requires a sense of devotion and duty for which we are all grateful.

Mr. GORDON

Mr. GORDON. Mr. Speaker, I am taking this opportunity to applaud the invaluable services provided by the Jackson County Rescue Squad. These brave, civic-minded people give freely of their time so that should disaster strike, we know that our friends and neighbors are there to help. Few realize the depth of training and hard work that goes into being a member of the rescue squad. Rescue squad members undergo a training series over a 4- to 6-month period which includes instruction in Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation [CPR], vehicle extrication, emergency driving, and rescue orientation. In addition to this training, rescue squad members also meet monthly to address business concerns as well as hear guest speakers. Rescue squad members are volunteers. They receive no pay for what they do. What also makes their services especially outstanding is that the organizations themselves receive no funding. They receive no funding from the city, the county, or the Federal Government. Rescue squads are funded in the same spirit of community volunteerism which moves them to serve. Family, friends, and neighbors pitch in at bake sales, road blocks, and fish frys to help those who sacrifice their time for the benefit of the whole community. Committing such an amount of spare time and energy to a job so emotionally and physically taxing requires a sense of devotion and duty for which we are all grateful.

Mr. GORDON

Mr. GORDON. Mr. Speaker, I am taking this opportunity to applaud the invaluable services provided by the Hendersonville Volunteer Rescue Squad. These brave, civic-minded people give freely of their time so that should disaster strike, we know that our friends and neighbors are there to help. Few realize the depth of training and hard work that goes into being a member of the rescue squad. Rescue squad members undergo a training series over a four to six month period which includes instruction in Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation [CPR], vehicle extrication, emergency driving, and rescue orientation. In addition to this training, rescue squad members also meet monthly to address business concerns as well as hear guest speakers. Rescue squad members are volunteers. They receive no pay for what they do. What also makes their service especially outstanding is that the organizations themselves receive no funding. They receive no funding from the city, the county, or the Federal Government. Rescue squads are funded in the same spirit of community volunteerism which moves them to serve. Family, friends, and neighbors pitch in at bake sales, road blocks, and fish frys to help those who sacrifice their time for the benefit of the whole community. Committing such an amount of spare time and energy to a job so emotionally and physically taxing requires a sense of devotion and duty for which we are all grateful.

Mr. GORDON

Mr. GORDON. Mr. Speaker, I am taking this opportunity to applaud the invaluable services provided by the Clay County Rescue Squad. These brave, civic-minded people give freely of their time so that should disaster strike, we know that our friends and neighbors are there to help. Few realize the depth of training and hard work that goes into being a member of the rescue squad. Rescue squad members undergo a training series over a 4- to 6-month period which includes instruction in cardiopulmonary resuscitation [CPR], vehicle extrication, emergency driving, and rescue orientation. In addition to this training, rescue squad members also meet monthly to address business concerns as well as hear guest speakers. Rescue squad members are volunteers. They receive no pay for what they do. What also makes their services especially outstanding is that the organizations themselves receive no funding. They receive no funding from the city, the county, or the Federal Government. Rescue squads are funded in the same spirit of community voluntarism which moves them to serve. Family, friends, and neighbors pitch in at bake sales, road blocks, and fish frys to help those who sacrifice their time for the benefit of the whole community. Committing such an amount of spare time and energy to a job so emotionally and physically taxing requires a sense of devotion and duty for which we are all grateful.

Mr. GORDON

Mr. GORDON. Mr. Speaker, today one of my constituents from Northern Telecom [Nortel] participated in a congressional panel discussion on corporate responsibility at home and abroad convened by my colleague from Illinois, Representative Lane Evans. Megan Barry, who is Nortel's senior ethics advisor and is based in the company's Nashville facility, participated on this panel. I would like to commend Megan and Nortel for the fine standard they have set in pushing for ethics in business practices and I commend to you and all of my colleagues, her remarks: Corporate Responsibility at Home and Abroad (By Megan Barry) Good morning. My name is Megan Barry and I'm here today representing Northern Telecom, Nortel. Nortel is an $11 billion global corporation with 63,000 employees around the world. We build, design, and integrate digital networks for information, entertainment, education and business. In the U.S. we have over 22,000 employees at major facilities such as Raleigh, NC, Dallas, TX, Atlanta, GA, Santa Clara, CA, Nashville, TN, Sunrise, FL, McLean, VA. Nortel is very honored to be included in these discussions today. All of the companies that are represented here today are being recognized for something ``exceptional''--for example, Pfizer is here because they provide low income individuals access to prescriptions. So why is Nortel here? I'm actually here today to talk about what some might consider to be the ``unexceptional.'' I'm here to talk about the day-to-day ins and outs of just being an ethical company. Unlike a lot of multinationals, we, at Nortel, have an established Business Ethics function. Our function is set up to deal with everyday ethical issues that confront our employees, our suppliers and our customers. We do this in several ways, but the key piece that has made our function so successful has been the adoption and distribution of our International Code of Business Conduct. We call our Code, ``Acting with Integrity.'' Before 1995, Nortel had a Code of Conduct--but guess who wrote it? Lawyers. The old Code tended to be more rule-based and had a lot of ``thou shalt not'' phrases. We felt that it was very important to move towards a more value-based approach. We wanted to provide a ``working document''--one that gave our employees help and guidance. So we did something pretty radical--we asked our employees what they wanted to see in a new Code. With the help of the International Business Ethics Institute, we conducted over 35 focus groups in the U.S., Canada, Caribbean and Latin America, Europe and Asia Pacific. We also invited all 63,000 of our employees to read the draft versions of our Code and give us input and ideas. The overall response was amazing. This gave our employees a voice in the process and a true sense of ownership of the completed Code. This approach also helped us write a document using international language that crosses all of our locations. For example, we use Questions and Answers throughout the Code to make it more readable. One of our focus groups from Europe pointed out a true ``North Americanism'' for us. In one question, we ask, ``Do people really get dismissed for violating Nortel's ethical standards?'' In one of our original drafts, we had asked, ``Do people really get terminated for violating Nortel's ethical standards?'' The Europeans were horrified. As one focus group member said, ``When you say we terminate them--do you mean we kill them?'' Of course the answer is no, you don't get killed for violating Nortel's Code, but yes, you can be dismissed for violating our Code. It took us a year and many drafts before we had the Code as you see it today. It is something all of us at Nortel are proud of. It addresses a wide range of important ethical issues. For instance, the Code makes it clear that Nortel does not and will not condone the use of enforced labor or child labor. It strictly forbids the reproduction, distribution or alteration of copyrighted materials without the permission of the copyright owner or authorized agent. But does having a final Code mean its over? Of course not. As I said earlier, we want our Code to be a ``working document.'' Nothing in our business stands still for long and our Code can't either. From the calls our office receives daily, there are already new and emerging issues that we need to address. For example, the Internet raises a whole host of ethical questions for all of us. And although we are learning along with everyone else, we were one of the first companies to actually put our Code on the Internet (http:// www.nortel.com/english/ethics/). We want everyone--our shareholders, our customers, our employees, our suppliers and the communities where we are located--to know what we stand for. At Nortel, we believe that as a multinational, we have a responsibility to act honestly and responsibly wherever we operate in the world. Putting together a Code that speaks to all our employees globally is helping us to create a Nortel culture where we are upholding high ethical standards and acting with integrity in all our operations.

Mr. GORDON

Mr. GORDON. Mr. Speaker, I am taking this opportunity to applaud the invaluable services provided by the Auburntown Volunteer Fire Department. These brave, civic minded people give freely of their time so that we may all feel safer at night. Few realize the depth of training and hard work that goes into being a volunteer firefighter. To quote one of my local volunteers, ``These fireman must have an overwhelming desire to do for others while expecting nothing in return.'' Preparation includes twice monthly training programs in which they have live drills, study the latest videos featuring the latest in fire fighting tactics, as well as attend seminars where they can obtain the knowledge they need to save lives. Within a year of becoming a volunteer firefighter, most attend the Tennessee Fire Training School in Murfreesboro where they undergo further, intensified training. When the residents of my district go to bed at night, they know that should disaster strike and their home catch fire, well trained and qualified volunteer fire departments are ready and willing to give so graciously and generously of themselves. This peace of mind should not be taken for granted. By selflessly giving of themselves, they ensure a safer future for us all. We owe these volunteer fire departments a debt of gratitude for their service and sacrifice.

Mr. GORDON

Mr. GORDON. Mr. Speaker, I am taking this opportunity to applaud the invaluable services provided by the Celina Volunteer Fire Department. These brave, civic minded people give freely of their time so that we may all feel safer at night. Few realize the depth of training and hard work that goes into being a volunteer fire fighter. To quote one of my local volunteers, ``These firemen must have an overwhelming desire to do for others while expecting nothing in return.'' Preparation includes twice monthly training programs in which they have live drills, study the latest videos featuring the latest in fire fighting tactics, as well as attend seminars where they can obtain the knowledge they need to save lives. within a year of becoming a volunteer firefighter, most attend the Tennessee fire training school in Murfreesboro where they undergo further, intensified training. When the residents of my district go to bed at night, they know that should disaster strike and their home catch fire, well trained and qualified volunteer fire departments are ready and willing to give so graciously and generously of themselves. This peace of mind should not be taken for granted. By selflessly giving of themselves, they ensure a safer future for us all. We owe these volunteer fire departments a debt of gratitude for their service and sacrifice.

Mr. GORDON

Mr. GORDON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Mr. Thomas Delbridge of Rutherford County, TN. Mr. Delbridge leaves his position as director of administrative services at the Tennessee State Department of Human Services on Friday, May 31. What will be a gain for his family will be a loss for all of Tennessee because this loyal service and dedication have meant so much throughout his 26 years of public service.. In February 1973, Tom began his tenure with the Tennessee State Department of Education as a supervisor of the trade and industrial program. His title reflected technical expertise gained through 21 years of vocational experience in the U.S. Air Force. Following his transition into civilian life, he worked as an industrial arts teacher at Hendersonville High School. His duty to country completed by military service, Mr. Delbridge found an equally high calling in education. He accelerated from supervisor of trade and industry to the director of the comprehensive vocational education department, where he served until 1981. He then moved to the divisional level as director of administrative services for the vocational education department. The, in 1984, Mr. Delbridge made the transition to the Department of Human Services, where he now serves. We honor Mr. Delbridge today because he held the education of young people and public service as his first priority. He has been entrusted with Tennessee's future, and the future of America as well. It is a trust he has earned respectively, and a bright future for Tennessee he has shaped.

Mr. GORDON

Mr. GORDON. Mr. Speaker, I am taking this opportunity to applaud the invaluable services provided by the Clay County Volunteer Fire Department. These brave, civic-minded people give freely of their time so that we may all feel safer at night. Few realize the depth of training and hard work that goes into being a volunteer firefighter. To quote one of my local volunteers, ``These firemen must have an overwhelming desire to do for others while expecting nothing in return.'' Preparation includes twice-monthly training programs in which they have live drills, study the latest videos featuring the latest in firefighting tactics, as well as attend seminars where they can obtain the knowledge they need to save lives. Within a year of becoming a volunteer firefighter, most attend the Tennessee fire training school in Murfreesboro where they undergo further, intensified training. When the residents of my district go to bed at night, they know that should disaster strike and their home catch fire, well-trained and qualified volunteer fire departments are ready and willing to give so graciously and generously of themselves. This peace of mind should not be taken for granted. By selflessly giving of themselves, they ensure a safer future for us all. We owe these volunteer fire departments a debt of gratitude for their service and sacrifice.

Mr. GORDON

Mr. GORDON. Mr. Speaker, I am taking this opportunity to applaud the invaluable services provided by the Belfast Volunteer Fire Department. These brave, civic-minded people give freely of their time so that we may all feel safer at night. Few realize the depth of training and hard work that goes into being a volunteer firefighter. To quote one of my local volunteers, ``These firemen must have an overwhelming desire to do for others while expecting nothing in return.'' Preparation includes twice-monthly training programs in which they have live drills, study the latest videos featuring the latest in firefighting tactics, as well as attend seminars where they can obtain the knowledge they need to save lives. Within a year of becoming a volunteer firefighter, most attend the Tennessee fire training school in Murfreesboro where they undergo further, intensified training. When the residents of my district go to bed at night, they know that should disaster strike and their home catch fire, well-trained and qualified volunteer fire departments are ready and willing to give so graciously and generously of themselves. This peace of mind should not be taken for granted. By selflessly giving of themselves, they ensure a safer future for us all. We owe these volunteer fire departments a debt of gratitude for their service and sacrifice.

Mr. GORDON

Mr. GORDON. Mr. Speaker, I am taking this opportunity to applaud the invaluable services provided by the Berlin Volunteer Fire Department. These brave, civic-minded people give freely of their time so that we may all feel safer at night. Few realize the depth of training and hard work that goes into being a volunteer firefighter. To quote one of my local volunteers, ``These firemen must have an overwhelming desire to do for others while expecting nothing in return.'' Preparation includes twice-monthly training programs in which they have live drills, study the latest videos featuring the latest in firefighting tactics, as well as attend seminars where they can obtain the knowledge they need to save lives. Within a year of becoming a volunteer firefighter, most attend the Tennessee fire training school in Murfreesboro where they undergo further, intensified training. When the residents of my district go to bed at night, they know that should disaster strike and their home catch fire, well-trained and qualified volunteer fire departments are ready and willing to give so graciously and generously of themselves. This peace of mind should not be taken for granted. By selflessly giving of themselves, they ensure a safer future for us all. We owe these volunteer fire departments a debt of gratitude for their service and sacrifice.

Mr. GORDON

Mr. GORDON. Mr. Speaker, I am taking this opportunity to applaud the invaluable services provided by the Baxter Volunteer Fire Department. These brave, civic-minded people give freely of their time so that we may all feel safer at night. Few realize the depth of training and hard work that goes into being a volunteer firefighter. To quote one of my local volunteers, ``These fireman must have an overwhelming desire to do for others while expecting nothing in return.'' Preparation includes twice-monthly training programs in which they have live drills, study the latest videos featuring where they can obtain the knowledge they need to save lives. Within a year of becoming a volunteer firefighter, most attend the Tennessee fire training school in Murfreesboro where they undergo further, intensified training. When the residents of my district go to bed at night, they know that should disaster strike and their home catch fire, well-trained and qualified volunteer fire departments are ready and willing to give so graciously and generously of themselves. This peace of mind should not be taken for granted. By selflessly giving of themselves, they ensure a safer future for us all. We owe these volunteer fire departments a debt of gratitude for their service and sacrifice.

Mr. GORDON

Mr. GORDON. Mr. Speaker, I am taking this opportunity to applaud the invaluable services provided by the Alpine Volunteer Fire Department. These brave, civic-minded people give freely of their time so that we may all feel safer at night. Few realize the depth of training and hard work that goes into being a volunteer firefighter. To quote one of my local volunteers, ``These fireman must have an overwhelming desire to do for others while expecting nothing in return.'' Preparation includes twice-monthly training programs in which they have live drills, study the latest videos featuring the latest in firefighting tactics, as well as attend seminars where they can obtain the knowledge they need to save lives. Within a year of becoming a volunteer firefighter, most attend the Tennessee fire training school in Murfreesboro where they undergo further, intensified training. When the residents of my district go to bed at night, they know that should disaster strike and their home catch fire, well-trained and qualified volunteer fire departments are ready and willing to give so graciously and generously of themselves. This peace of mind should not be taken for granted. By selflessly giving of themselves, they ensure a safer future for us all. We owe these volunteer fire departments a debt of gratitude for their service and sacrifice.

Mr. GORDON

Mr. GORDON. Mr. Speaker, I am taking this opportunity to applaud the invaluable services provided by the Allons Volunteer Fire Department. These brave, civic-minded people give freely of their time so that we may all feel safer at night. Few realize the depth of training and hard work that goes into being a volunteer firefighter. To quote one of my local volunteers, ``These firemen must have an overwhelming desire to do for others while expecting nothing in return.'' Preparation includes twice-monthly training programs in which they have live drills, study the latest videos featuring the latest in firefighting tactics, as well as attend seminars where they can obtain the knowledge they need to save lives. Within a year of becoming a volunteer firefighter, most attend the Tennessee fire training school in Murfreesboro where they undergo further, intensified training. When the residents of my district go to bed at night, they know that should disaster strike and their home catch fire, well-trained and qualified volunteer fire departments are ready and willing to give so graciously and generously of themselves. This peace of mind should not be taken for granted. By selflessly giving of themselves, they ensure a safer future for us all. We owe these volunteer fire departments a debt of gratitude for their service and sacrifice.

Mr. GORDON

Mr. GORDON. Mr. Speaker, I am taking this opportunity to applaud the invaluable services provided by the Cornersville Volunteer Fire Department. These brave, civic-minded people give freely of their time so that we may all feel safer at night. Few realize the depth of training and hard work that goes into being a volunteer firefighter. To quote one of my local volunteers, ``These firemen must have an overwhelming desire to do for others while expecting nothing in return.'' Preparation includes twice-monthly training programs in which they have live drills, study the latest videos featuring the latest firefighting tactics, as well as attend seminars where they can obtain the knowledge they need to save lives. Within a year of becoming a volunteer firefighter, most attend the Tennessee fire training school in Murfreesboro where they undergo further, intensified training. When the residents of my district go to bed at night, they know that should disaster strike and their home catch fire, well-trained and qualified volunteer fire departments are ready and willing to give so graciously and generously of themselves. This peace of mind should not be taken for granted. By selflessly giving of themselves, they ensure a safer future for us all. We owe these volunteer fire departments a debt of gratitude for their services and sacrifice.

Mr. GORDON

Mr. GORDON. Mr. Speaker, I am taking this opportunity to applaud the invaluable services provided by the Algood Volunteer Fire Department. These brave, civic-minded people give freely of their time so that we may all feel safer at night. Few realize the depth of training and hard work that goes into being a volunteer firefighter. To quote one of my local volunteers, ``These firemen must have an overwhelming desire to do for others while expecting nothing in return.'' Preparation includes twice-monthly training programs in which they have live drills, study the latest videos featuring the latest in firefighting tactics, as well as attend seminars where they can obtain the knowledge they need to save lives. Within a year of becoming a volunteer firefighter, most attend the Tennessee fire training school in Murfreesboro where they undergo further, intensified training. When the residents of my district go to bed at night, they know that should disaster strike and their home catch fire, well-trained and qualified volunteer fire departments are ready and willing to give so graciously and generously of themselves. This peace of mind should not be taken for granted. By selflessly giving of themselves, they ensure a safer future for us all. We owe these volunteer fire departments a debt of gratitude for their service and sacrifice.