LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION commending outgoing Chief Thomas Fitzsimmons upon
the occasion of his designation for special recognition for his dedi-
cated service to the Massapequa Fire Department

WHEREAS, Citizens across our State and Nation are inspired by and
indebted to our valiant firefighters who exhibit courage and bravery
every day in the course of their duties; and
WHEREAS, Firefighters exemplify the power of human compassion and the
strength of the American spirit through actions of the most heroic
magnitude; their sacrifices and their selfless dedication merit tribute
and recognition by all citizens of this great Empire State; and
WHEREAS, This Legislative Body is justly proud to commend outgoing
Chief Thomas Fitzsimmons upon the occasion of his designation for
special recognition for his dedicated service to the Massapequa Fire
Department to be celebrated at its 100th Annual Installation Dinner at
the Crest Hollow Country Club, Woodbury, New York on Saturday, May 1,
2010; and
WHEREAS, The firefighters of New York State are renowned throughout
the Nation; their reputation is synonymous with excellence in the ardu-
ous field of fire protection and prevention; and
WHEREAS, Since the early days of "teapot steamers," the volunteer
firefighter has been the cornerstone of our great Nation's efforts to
spare us from the ravages of fire; and
WHEREAS, Volunteer firefighters and fire departments not only provide
the critical service of fire protection but also engage in other activ-
ities of great benefit and importance to the communities they serve; and
WHEREAS, It takes a special dedication, a strong desire to help others
and a tireless sense of community to forsake precious time with family
and friends to respond to the signal that a neighbor is in need; Thomas
Fitzsimmons is such a firefighter; throughout his years of devoted
service, this volunteer heroically performed, above and beyond the call
of duty, those responsibilities which define the task of fire
protection; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commend outgoing Chief Thomas Fitzsimmons upon the occasion of his
designation for special recognition for his dedicated service to the
Massapequa Fire Department; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to outgoing Chief Thomas Fitzsimmons.