LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION commending Outgoing Chief Edward J. Kraus for his
distinguished service to the North Bellmore 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 Outgoing Chief
Edward J. Kraus for his distinguished service to the North Bellmore Fire
Department as he is honored at the Department's Annual Installation
Dinner, to be held at the Huntington Hilton in Melville, New York, on
Saturday, May 5, 2012; 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; Outgo-
ing Chief Edward J. Kraus is such a firefighter; throughout his many
years of devoted service, he has heroically performed, above and beyond
the call of duty, those responsibilities which define the task of fire
protection; 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 the
tribute and recognition of all citizens of their community, their State
and their nation; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commend Outgoing Chief Edward J. Kraus for his exemplary and distin-
guished service to the North Bellmore Fire Department and his community;
and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to Outgoing Chief Edward J. Kraus.