LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION commending Firefighter Yvonne Tompkins upon the
occasion of her designation for special recognition after 40 years of
designated 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 Yvonne
Tompkins upon the occasion of her 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, Yvonne Tompkins joined the Chelsea Fire Company in 1974,
acting as Captain from 1984-1986; she was one of the first female offi-
cers in Dutchess County; and
WHEREAS, Yvonne Tompkins has served as company president, company
secretary for 20 years, chair or co-chair of numerous fund raising
efforts for the company, fire police for the last five years, and as
district secretary for over 30 years; and
WHEREAS, It take 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; Yvonne
Tompkins 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 Yvonne Tompkins for 40 years of distinguished
service; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitable engrossed, be tran-
smitted to Firefighter Yvonne Tompkins.