LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION honoring Fire Chief Mike Chura in recognition of
his heroic action in rescuing a woman from a burning vehicle on August
11, 2010

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize and
commend the caring, concern and heroic acts of individuals who take
prompt and appropriate action in emergency situations, remaining calm
under pressure, in an effort to preserve the life of another; and
WHEREAS, The quality and sanctity of human life are cherished values,
worthy of safeguarding; this Legislative Body is proud to honor an indi-
vidual who would serve to protect it, lauding particularly one who would
clearly endanger his own life and safety on behalf of that cause; and
WHEREAS, This Legislative Body is justly proud to honor Fire Chief
Mike Chura in recognition of his heroic action in rescuing a woman from
a burning vehicle on Wednesday, August 11, 2010; and
WHEREAS, On the evening of August 11, 2010, Fire Chief Mike Chura was
driving in New Jersey's Egg Harbor Township with his family when he
noticed a vehicle overturned and burning near a line of trees; and
WHEREAS, A seasoned 25-year firefighter from Syracuse District Fire
Department, Fire Chief Mike Chura came to the immediate rescue of the
passenger who was trapped inside, suspended by her seat belt; and
WHEREAS, Without hesitation, Fire Chief Mike Chura instinctually freed
the trapped woman and, with the assistance of other civilians who
happened upon the scene, pulled her to safety shortly before the vehicle
became engulfed in flames; and
WHEREAS, Fire Chief Mike Chura should be meritoriously commended for
remaining calm under pressure and for showing valor and true courage
while performing a lifesaving deed; and
WHEREAS, Through his spontaneous and heroic actions, Fire Chief Mike
Chura demonstrated his character and his compassion for the welfare of
others, personifying, by virtue of his actions, the collective concern
of ordinary citizens across the community of New York State who volun-
tarily respond without the thought of danger or reward when others are
in need of help; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
honor Fire Chief Mike Chura in recognition of his heroic action in
rescuing a woman from a burning vehicle on August 11, 2010, noting the
significance of his immediate and unconditional response in coming to
the aid of another in a life-threatening situation; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to Fire Chief Mike Chura.