Honoring the 100th Anniversary of the Fortuna Volunteer Fire Department

HONORING THE 100TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE FORTUNA VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT -- (Extensions of Remarks - June 04, 2004)

SPEECH OF HON. MIKE THOMPSON OF CALIFORNIA
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
THURSDAY, JUNE 3, 2004

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the 100th anniversary of the Fortuna Volunteer Fire Department in Humboldt County, California.

The members of the Fortuna Volunteer Fire Department, organized on June 20, 1904, are dedicated to the protection and preservation of life and property when threatened by the perils of fire.

In 1932 the Fire Department became a fire protection district to better serve the people of this spectacular part of the Redwood Empire. In 1957 the district expanded its services with the addition of a second fire station in Hydesville. In 1967 a third fire station was formed in Campton Heights. A new main station was opened in Fortuna in 1998.

The Fortuna Volunteer Fire Department currently consists of a force of 68 people at three fire stations covering 26 square miles and protecting a population of more than 20,000 people. Each member completes a minimum of 156 hours of training.

The members of the Fortuna Volunteer Fire Department provide fire prevention, education for students in local schools and residents of senior care homes. The volunteers maintain an on-going disaster preparedness program and serve the community with fire prevention inspections of new construction, day care facilities, senior care facilities and schools. In addition, members hold scholarship fundraisers, take part in Christmas programs serving needy families and handicapped children.

The Fortuna Volunteer Fire Department is a vital part of the life of our Eel River Valley community.

Mr. Speaker, it is appropriate at this time that we recognize the Fortuna Volunteer Fire Department on the occasion of its 100th anniversary.

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