Ronald Reagan

“ It is fitting and proper that a grateful Nation should recognize the vital contributions of the one million men and women who serve in our Nation's volunteer fire and rescue companies and departments. ”

“ Our Nation's volunteer firefighters carry on this truly American tradition of citizen response for the common good. Like the Minutemen of our early years, these volunteers are ready to respond on short notice to help fellow citizens in need. Volunteer firefighters protect our lives, our families, and the economic life of our communities from the threat of destructive fire, often at great personal sacrifice. ”

“ Throughout our history, the American spirit has been distinguished by the ready willingness of neighbors to join together and help one another. The tradition of voluntary community service is as important today as it was in the founding years of our country. ”