Paying Respects to David Finger the Chief of Legislative and Regulatory Affairs At the National Volunteer Fire Council

Floor Speech

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Mr. HOYER. Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay my respects to Dave Finger of the National Volunteer Fire Council who passed away on June 3rd following a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer.

Prior to joining the National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) as its Chief of Legislative and Regulatory Affairs in 2005, Dave served as the lead staffer on first responder issues for the Research and Technology Subcommittee of the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology. Dave worked closely with my staff and the staff of my three fellow co- chairs of the Congressional Fire Services Caucus sharing input on legislation pending before the House Science Committee that benefited our nation's fire and emergency services.

As NVFC's Chief of Legislative and Regulatory Affairs, Dave represented the interests of our nation's volunteer firefighters on Capitol Hill. His efforts played a critical role in the passage of federal legislation that not only advanced the health and safety of our nation's volunteer firefighters, but all firefighters and emergency services personnel.

Dave was the embodiment of collaboration. While his primary focus was always on advocating for the volunteer fire service, he understood the importance of working together with the other national fire organizations to advance a common agenda. Tributes from his colleagues expressed appreciation for his passion, integrity, and character. Cerebral in nature, he possessed a depth of knowledge and insight on the issues he championed. There was never a time when he walked into a meeting with Members of Congress or their staff unprepared; he was the consummate professional.

Dave was only forty-four when his life was cut short by cancer. He leaves behind his wife, Allison, and their two children: Vivienne, 7, and Sullivan, 2. He also leaves behind many friends and thousands of firefighters across the nation who owe him their deep gratitude for the work he performed on their behalf throughout his career.

Madam Speaker, on behalf of my fellow Co-Chairs of the Congressional Fire Service Caucus, I extend my sympathies to Dave's family and to his colleagues at the National Volunteer Fire Council and throughout the fire and emergency services community for the loss of their loved one and friend.

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