Governor O'Malley Delivers Opening Remarks at Maryland State Fireman's Association Convention
OCEAN CITY, MD (June 16, 2008) – Governor Martin O’Malley delivered the welcoming address to firefighters throughout Maryland today at the 116th Annual Maryland State Firemen’s Association (MSFA) Convention and Conference. Over 4,000 attendees were welcomed by Governor O’Malley, and collectively thanked for their dedication to the public safety of Maryland. The Governor also took the opportunity to officially announce the reappointment of State Fire Marshal Bill Barnard, an announcement that brought immediate and widespread applause from the audience.
Thanking the firefighters, who protect the people of Maryland on a daily basis, Governor O’Malley said, “People throughout our entire State rely on your courage, your talent and your fortitude. And because of those qualities, Marylanders can rest assured that we are placing our lives and the lives of our loved ones into some of the most capable hands in the entire nation. We are doing what we can at the State level to support you in the work that you do, because it is an important part of fulfilling the greatest responsibility that we have in State government to the people of Maryland – to safeguard the lives of our citizens. We know that you cannot be expected to do your job alone. You need partners who are willing to stand with you, who are willing to give you the tools necessary to do what you do, who listen and respond – just as you respond when there’s a call for help from your neighbors.”
The O’Malley / Brown Administration has supported Maryland’s firefighters through a number of initiatives aimed at increased public safety and preparedness. During the past sixteen months, landmark legislation was passed requiring that only fire safety compliant cigarettes be sold in Maryland. Legislation was also passed requiring carbon monoxide alarms be installed in most new homes. The administration also secured nearly $8 million to advance the statewide Public Safety Communications Systems, funding for Senator Amoss Fire, Rescue and Ambulance Fund, the Volunteer Company Assistance Fund, and more than $33 million to replace three Maryland State Police helicopters.
In honor of those firefighters who have paid the ultimate sacrifice in their service to the greater good, Governor O’Malley offered a special tribute in their memory. “This conference is not just about becoming better firefighters. It’s also about taking the time to remember your brothers and sisters who have made the ultimate sacrifice, as well as those members who have devoted so much of their lives to protecting others. These individuals have demonstrated great courage, valor and service to others, and they will always be in our thoughts and prayers, along with their loved ones. Their sacrifices were just as great, and the people of our State will forever be grateful for supporting their families and friends in the work that they did.”
The MSFA, lead by President Chief Paul F. Sterling, carries a mission to serve, promote, advocate and represent the interests of all the volunteer fire, rescue, and emergency medical services companies or departments of Maryland, and the individual members of the MSFA, and be available to assist in all aspects of their needs and activities, including management, administration, budget, operations and logistics.
