Assembly Resolution No. 258

BY: M. of A. Miller

HONORING the Willowvale Fire Company, Inc., upon
the occasion of its 75th Anniversary and long,
distinguished history of service to the community

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize and
commend fire departments of the State of New York that have exhibited a
long and sustained commitment to excellence in fire protection and
emergency services, significantly contributing to the safety and
well-being of their communities; and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and fully in accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to honor
the Willowvale Fire Company, Inc., upon the occasion of its
distinguished history of service, recognizing its commitment to
protecting life and property in the Town of New Hartford and beyond; and

WHEREAS, The Willowvale Fire Company traces its origins back to 1950
when residents of the Willowvale Bleachery and surrounding areas voted
to form a fire protection district and enter into a contract for fire
services; through their determination and community spirit, members of
the Company successfully raised funds for a new fire truck and laid the
foundation for what would become a vital public safety institution; and

WHEREAS, Over the past seven decades, the Willowvale Fire Company
has grown from its humble beginnings into a well-equipped, highly
trained fire and emergency response organization, adapting to the
evolving needs of its community and continuously improving its services;
and

WHEREAS, The Company has played a pivotal role in numerous
significant moments in the history of the Sauquoit Valley, including its
1953 construction of a four-bay firehouse on Oneida Street, the
establishment of Station No. 2 in Washington Mills in 1970, and the 2005
construction of a modern $1.5 million fire station, ensuring its
continued ability to provide effective and timely emergency response;
and

WHEREAS, The members of the Willowvale Fire Company have
consistently demonstrated selfless dedication, not only in firefighting
and rescue operations but also in community outreach, youth programs,
and local training initiatives; from responding to devastating barn
fires and tragic incidents to pioneering local fire training programs
and mutual aid agreements, the Company has remained steadfast in its
mission to protect and serve; and

WHEREAS, The Company has also shown a commitment to honoring its
legacy and leadership, recognizing individuals, such as Chief James L.
Harrigan (1957-1974), Chief William J. Hughes (1981-2012), and Chief
Wayne R. Smoulcey (2018-2019), whose unwavering service and leadership
shaped the Company into the esteemed institution it is today; and

WHEREAS, Throughout its history, the Willowvale Fire Company has not
only responded to fires but has also taken an active role in disaster

response, rescue operations, and community safety education, ensuring
that residents of Chadwicks, Washington Mills, and surrounding areas
remain safe and prepared in times of emergency; and

WHEREAS, The strength and success of the Willowvale Fire Company is
built upon the dedication of its volunteer firefighters, past and
present, who have demonstrated bravery, resilience, and an unwavering
commitment to duty in the face of adversity; and

WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to recognize the
achievements of organizations that uphold the highest standards of
public service and self-sacrifice, ensuring the continued safety and
prosperity of their communities; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
honor the Willowvale Fire Company, Inc., for its 75th Anniversary and
historic and distinguished service, commemorating its achievements,
dedication, and the vital role it plays in the Town of New Hartford and
Oneida County; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to the Willowvale Fire Company, Inc.