As Offered
134th General Assembly
Regular Session H. R. No. 342
2021-2022
Representative Riedel
A RESOLUTION
Honoring the Defiance Fire Department
on its One Hundred Fiftieth Anniversary.
WHEREAS, The members of the House of Representatives of the 134th 1
General Assembly of Ohio are pleased to commend the Defiance Fire 2
Department on the One Hundred Fiftieth Anniversary of its founding, 3
celebrated August 19, 2022; and 4
WHEREAS, Recognition of this prestigious milestone is a fitting 5
tribute to the Defiance Fire Department, for over the past one hundred 6
fifty years, this fine agency has attained a praiseworthy record of 7
service to local residents and businesses. Founded as an all-volunteer 8
association in 1872, it has grown over the years to include full-time 9
firefighters and emergency medical services, and it provides coverage 10
to the City of Defiance and the surrounding area. Indeed, the 11
department’s achievements are a justifiable source of pride and a fine 12
reflection not only on the organization itself but also on its chief, 13
Bill Wilkins, on his predecessors, on its dedicated members, and on 14
the communities it serves; and 15
WHEREAS, While many people are content to take a passive role in 16
life, the members of the Defiance Fire Department have risked their 17
own safety to ensure the well-being of their fellow citizens, and the 18
enthusiasm and devotion to duty they have shown in all of their 19
endeavors have earned them the gratitude and respect of the citizens 20
they have safeguarded. We are certain that as they maintain their 21
unwavering commitment to service, these individuals will continue in 22
the tradition of excellence that has long been the department’s 23
hallmark; and 24
WHEREAS, We are delighted to honor the many members of the 25
Defiance Fire Department, for they have proven themselves to be 26
H. R. No. 342 Page 2
As Offered
conscientious, valiant Ohioans, and considering the bravery, 27
commitment, and self-sacrifice of these heroes, it is no surprise that 28
the department inspires such trust and confidence. Their noteworthy 29
accomplishments demonstrate the potential of individuals to have a 30
positive effect on the quality of life in our society; therefore be it 31
RESOLVED, That we, the members of the House of Representatives of 32
the 134th General Assembly of Ohio, in adopting this Resolution, 33
congratulate the Defiance Fire Department on the auspicious occasion 34
of its One Hundred Fiftieth Anniversary and extend best wishes for 35
continued prosperity; and be it further 36
RESOLVED, That the Clerk of the House of Representatives transmit 37
a duly authenticated copy of this Resolution to the Defiance Fire 38
Department. 39