LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION commending Firefighter Leo Kearns upon the occa-
sion of his designation for special recognition after 40 years of dedi-
cated service to the Chelsea Fire Company

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 Leo
Kearns upon the occasion of his designation for special recognition
after 40 years of dedicated service to the Chelsea Fire Company; 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, Leo Kearns joined the Chelsea Fire Company in 1974; he served
in a chief officer position for eight years, acting as chief of the
company in 1986, 1988, and 1993; since 2004, he remains an active driver
and is co-chair of the annual golf tournament; 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; Leo
Kearns is such a firefighter; throughout 40 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 Leo Kearns for 40 years of distinguished service to
the Chelsea Fire Company; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to Firefighter Leo Kearns.