House Concurrent Resolution 34

(As Adopted by House)

A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION COMMENDING AND CONGRATULATING THE WHEELER VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT UPON THE MOMENTOUS OCCASION OF ITS 50TH ANNIVERSARY.

WHEREAS, 50 years ago, in July 1967, the Wheeler Volunteer Fire Department was organized, becoming the first all-volunteer fire department in Prentiss County, Mississippi, and since that time, the department has provided an illustrious, selfless service and unparalleled devotion to the grateful citizens of Prentiss County; and

WHEREAS, the Wheeler Volunteer Fire Department answers a multitude of emergency calls, from fire to medical, and the firefighters of the department, outfitted in their fire retardant suits and giant fire engine, promptly answers each one with unparalleled tenacity and skillful prowess using their many resources including, RNs, EMTs, certified firemen with smoke diver certification and the jaws of life; and

WHEREAS, throughout its 50-year history, several immeasurably audacious and chivalrous fire chiefs have led the Wheeler Volunteer Fire Department, including Pete Woodruff from 1967 until 1970, George Cook from 1970 until 1972, Gerald Hodges from 1972 until 1974, Charles Duncan from 1974 until 1999, Randy Moore from 1999 until 2005, and Kerry Moore from 2005 until 2013; and

WHEREAS, under the helm of Fire Chief Jamie Thomas since 2013 and all those who came before him, the firefighters, past, present and future, of the Wheeler Volunteer Fire Department face dangerous, deadly situations that demand they put their lives on the line, but every time the bell rings, they fearlessly and bravely rush into scorching buildings with broiling temperatures and courageously fight the most torrid infernos as embers singe their coats to ensure safety for the citizens of Prentiss County, Mississippi, who will be forever thankful for their intrepid, noble efforts; and

WHEREAS, it is the policy of the House of Representatives to recognize and commend fine institutions in Mississippi, especially those such as the Wheeler Volunteer Fire Department, an organization comprised of heroic firefighters whose outstanding leadership, dauntless fortitude and unwavering duty to protect and serve the citizens of Prentiss County are truly appreciated:

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI, THE SENATE CONCURRING THEREIN, That we do hereby commend and congratulate the Wheeler Volunteer Fire Department upon the occasion of its 50th anniversary and extend most sincere wishes for continued success and safety in all of its future endeavors.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That copies of this resolution be furnished to the Wheeler Volunteer Fire Department and to the members of the Capitol Press Corps.