78R13352 MDM-D
By: Pena H.R. No. 918
R E S O L U T I O N
WHEREAS, The Edinburg Volunteer Fire Department has long been
devoted to the safety of the citizens of South Texas, and this vital
community organization indeed merits special recognition; and
WHEREAS, Originally established on July 28, 1921, under the
guidance of Fire Chief John McKinney, the department was
reorganized on May 24, 1926, led by I. M. Stout, fire chief; Charles
A. Floyd, first assistant chief; Cyril M. Tapager, president; and
A. J. Ross, Jr., secretary-treasurer; today, the leadership of Fire
Chief Shawn Snider inspires a dedicated team of approximately 60
volunteers and a modest-sized staff who continue the proud
tradition of serving their community as part of the Edinburg
Volunteer Fire Department; and
WHEREAS, The department's service area includes nearly 200
square miles and 50,000 individuals in Hidalgo County, and its E. E.
Sanders Training Field serves as the centerpiece of the Rio Grande
Valley Fire School; fire company members participate in numerous
community activities that provide a forum for fire safety
information as well as a way to raise operating funds; and
WHEREAS, In recent years, local firefighters hosted the
National Volunteer Fire Council quarterly meeting in their city,
and they have also hosted the state convention; in 2001, a
groundbreaking ceremony heralded the coming of the Edinburg
Volunteer Fire Department Museum; and
WHEREAS, Throughout its admirable history, the Edinburg
Volunteer Fire Department has been a dependable source of
protection and peace of mind for countless Texans, and it is a
pleasure to join in paying tribute to this fine organization at this
time; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 78th Texas
Legislature hereby commend the faithful members of the Edinburg
Volunteer Fire Department for their deep commitment to their
community and extend to all associated with the department
heartfelt best wishes for continued success.