Senate Joint Resolution 1097 honors Chief John Linsenbigler for his dedicated service to the Seymour Volunteer Fire Department (SVFD) as he retires after a remarkable forty-four-year career in the fire service. Linsenbigler has been a vital member of the SVFD for thirty years, serving as chief for the last seven years. His journey in firefighting began in 1982 as a reserve firefighter, and he has held various leadership positions within the department, culminating in his role as chief in 2017. Under his leadership, the SVFD has grown to include six stations and seventy-eight firefighters, responding to over 3,200 emergency calls in 2025 alone.

The resolution acknowledges Linsenbigler's commitment to community service, highlighting his hands-on approach to leadership and his compassionate actions, such as delivering a baby and comforting burn victims. As he transitions into retirement, he plans to continue serving the community as a substitute teacher. The resolution expresses gratitude for his contributions and wishes him a fulfilling retirement, while also recognizing his family, including his wife Carol, their two children, and two granddaughters.