Frelinghuysen, House Thank Mendham Fire Department for 110 years of Service

CELEBRATING THE 110TH ANNIVERSARY
OF THE MENDHAM FIRE DEPARTMENT

HON. RODNEY P. FRELINGHUYSEN
U.S. House of Representatives, 11th District of New Jersey
Thursday, June 25, 2015

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 110th Anniversary of the Mendham Fire Department located in the Borough of Mendham in Morris County, New Jersey.

The Mendham Fire Department was established on June 20, 1905. The first officers of the department were elected at the founding meeting. The President was Edward S.P. Bretherton, Secretary J. Smith Gunther, Treasurer Charles P. Bretherton, and Chief John M. Hoffman. The original firehouse was completed in December 1906 with $885 raised by the residents. In 1913 the Mendham Independent Hook, Ladder, and Hose Company No. 1 was formed. In 1940 the Rescue Squad came into existence with twelve men volunteers. In the past century, the department has grown and continued to provide the community with exemplary service.

On September 11, 2001 the fire department responded to terrorist attacks in New York. Their First Aid Squad was also sent to the World Trade Center to assist the victims at the site of the tragedy.

In 2014, the department responded to 250 calls with an average response time of seven minutes and twenty-two seconds. This is about two minutes less than the national average for all volunteer fire organizations. The department is not just responsible for responding to emergency calls. They are actively involved in just about every facet of the Mendham community and provide mutual aid to neighboring towns.

Each year the department continues to grow their junior membership. They provide opportunities for young men and women aged sixteen to eighteen, who participate in various firefighting and first aid activities. The makeup of the junior membership represents the best and brightest of Mendham. They carry on to college and beyond the confidence and skills that are instilled in them while working at the fire department.

The Mendham Fire Department has been able to maintain and grow a wonderful relationship of trust and respect with Mendham residents. For this 110th Anniversary the department is planning a number of events and activities to celebrate their achievements.

Mr. Speaker, please join me in thanking and recognizing the Mendham Fire Department for their 110 years of dedicated service to the community.

 


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