LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION commending Firefighter Joe Ward 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 Joe
Ward 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, Joe Ward received a standing ovation at the celebration for
all of his dedicated efforts throughout the years in keeping his commu-
nity safe; recently retired as a police dispatcher, 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; Joe
Ward 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, there-
fore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commend Firefighter Joe Ward for 60 years of distinguished service to
the Highland Engine Company No. 1; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to Joe Ward.