LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION commending Firefighter George Halvorsen upon the
occasion of his designation for special recognition after 60 years of
dedicated service to the Highland Engine Company No. 1

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 George
Halvorsen upon the occasion of his designation for special recognition
after 60 years of dedicated service to the Highland Engine Company No.
1, in Cornwall, New York, which was celebrated with its Annual Dinner at
the local fire house on Saturday, March 26, 2011; and
WHEREAS, George Halvorsen received a standing ovation at the cele-
bration for all of his dedicated efforts throughout the years in keeping
his community safe; he still visits the fire house at 7 a.m. on weekdays
to have coffee and do his part to help solve the world's problems; 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, 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 country; 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; George
Halvorsen is such a firefighter; throughout 60 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 Firefighter George Halvorsen for 60 years of distinguished
service; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to George Halvorsen.