LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION commending Firefighter John J. Maes upon the
occasion of his designation for special recognition after 35 years of
dedicated service to the North Lindenhurst Fire Department

WHEREAS, The firefighters of New York State are renowned throughout the
Nation; their reputation is synonymous with excellence in the arduous
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, This Legislative Body is proud to commend Firefighter John J.
Maes upon the occasion of his designation for special recognition after
35 years of dedicated service to the North Lindenhurst Fire Department;
and
WHEREAS, John J. Maes joined the North Lindenhurst Fire Department in
1976; he was an active firefighter in Hook, Ladder and Engine Company
No. 3 and since has held several positions while serving on the Execu-
tive Board, some of which include Vice President and President; and
WHEREAS, John J. Maes' spirit of service to his fellow citizens was
truly demonstrated during the World Trade Center tragedy of 2001; along
with a group of volunteers, he responded to Ground Zero and assisted
residents to retrieve their personal belongings as well as beloved pets;
and
WHEREAS, In addition, John J. Maes was a member of the New York State
Drill Team Champions, the Piston Knockers; and
WHEREAS, With him throughout have been his wife, and their two loving
sons, all of whom feel privileged to be part of his life and rejoice in
his achievements; 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; John J.
Maes is such a firefighter; throughout 35 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, there-
fore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commend Firefighter John J. Maes for 35 years of distinguished service;
and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to Firefighter John J. Maes.