Monday, U.S. Rep. Richard Hudson presented a framed Congressional Extension of Remarks to Southern Pines Fire Chief Mike Cameron to recognize the Southern Pines Fire Department’s 125th anniversary. The remarks honoring the department were entered into the official Congressional Record by Rep. Hudson on March 10.
“I would like to extend my most sincere gratitude and appreciation to the Southern Pines Fire Department for its dependable service and sacrifice,” said Hudson. “The admirable dedication of the brave men and women of the Southern Pines Fire Department to protect those in our community does not go unrecognized, and I know I speak for all in our community in wishing them the best as they continue to provide life-saving assistance to those in need.”
This year marks 125 years since the Southern Pines Fire Department was established in February 1898, following a devastating fire that destroyed the Central Hotel. The Southern Pines Fire Department is the oldest in Moore County and is one of the oldest in North Carolina, according to Hudson. Hudson says the department responds to approximately 2,100 emergency assistance requests annually and comprises over 50 volunteer and career staff officers.
Hudson was joined by Southern Pines Mayor Carol Haney, Councilmember Taylor Clement, Town Manager Reagan Parsons, Register of Deeds Bill Britton, Fire Chief Mike Cameron, and volunteers and staff of the Southern Pines Fire Department.
Below is the Congressional Extention of Remarks:
Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Southern Pines Fire Department for 125 years of exceptional service to our community.
The Southern Pines Fire Department was founded on February 13, 1898, following a devastating fire which destroyed the Central Hotel. Prior to its inception, the public was responsible for banding together with buckets of water to put out any fires. In 1916, the town bought its first chemical truck before purchasing Old Betsy, a motorized fire engine, in 1925. After many dances and community events were held to fund the department, the town purchased a new fire engine in 1935.
In one of the department’s most impressive accomplishments, it saved the Southland Hotel from destruction at the hands of a devastating fire in 1943 and helped all guests escape the disaster without any injuries. This heroic feat marks one of the countless acts of bravery Southern Pines firefighters have performed in the face of danger over the past 125 years. Their outstanding actions and leadership will continue to stand as an example for all first responders to emulate.
I would like to extend my most sincere gratitude and appreciation to the Southern Pines Fire Department for its dependable service and sacrifice. The admirable dedication its firefighters have long extended to protect those in our community does not go unrecognized, and I know I speak for all in our community in wishing them the best as they continue to provide life-saving assistance to those in need. Mr. Speaker, please join me today in honoring the Southern Pines Fire Department for 125 years of exemplary service.
Courtesy photo/Contributed.
