[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 154 (2008), Part 1] [Extensions of Remarks] [Pages 401-402] [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]RECOGNIZING THE GARRETTFORD DREXEL HILL FIRE COMPANY FOR 100 YEARS OF SERVICE ______ HON. JOE SESTAK of pennsylvania in the house of representatives Thursday, January 17, 2008 Mr. SESTAK. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Garrettford Drexel Hill Fire Company for 100 years of service to the residents of Upper Darby, Pennsylvania. The Garrettford Drexel Hill Fire Company is the oldest of Upper Darby's five fire companies, and is the only one that remains entirely comprised of volunteers. What began with a handful of citizens committed to protecting the [[Page 402]] people of Drexel Hill has grown into a company with over 60 active members. These men and women selflessly protect the community while balancing their full-time careers and families. Through the years, their names and faces have changed, but the commitment and pride with which they serve has persevered. I would like to recognize in particular James Verner, who served as chief of the company from 1913 until his tragic death in 1934. His was the first and only line of duty death to strike the Garrettford Drexel Hill Fire Company. The Garrettford Fire Company, as it was originally known, started with just two Babcock extinguishers. From these humble beginnings, Garrettford Drexel Hill has expanded to an impressive, modernized apparatus fleet. The current firehouse, built at the site of the converted Baptist church, which originally housed the company, now has four bays and a spacious hall to accommodate this growth. I ask everyone to join me in commending the members of the Garrettford Drexel Hill Fire Company, past and present, for their service to the community, and to congratulate them on reaching this 100-year milestone. ____________________