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[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1650]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
IN RECOGNITION OF BATTALION CHIEF ROBERT K. BROOKS
______
HON. MICHAEL C. BURGESS
of texas
in the house of representatives
Friday, January 3, 2020
Mr. BURGESS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Battalion Chief
Robert K. Brooks as he retires after 35 years of dedicated service to
the Flower Mound Fire Department. Over the course of his career, he
demonstrated continued commitment to the Fire Department by preserving
the safety of citizens in Denton County and by educating future
generations about the importance of fire safety.
Mr. Brooks began his career as a dedicated volunteer firefighter in
January of 1983, earning a position as a paid firefighter in 1984. His
continued service to the Fire Department resulted in a promotion to
Shift Lieutenant and service as the Department's Emergency Medical
Service coordinator. In addition to his duties as a firefighter and
paramedic, Mr. Brooks played an integral role in the development and
supervision of the Department's Safety and Fire Education Team as well
as the clown program.
In 2014, Mr. Brooks received the honor and responsibility of serving
as the Training Battalion Chief for the Flower Mound Fire Department.
In this position, he undertook the task of instructing 112 certified
firefighters and mentoring new recruits. Throughout his service as
Training Battalion Chief, he served as a leader and role model to all
firefighters of the department.
In addition to his duties at the Fire Department, Mr. Brooks never
hesitated to invest time educating local youth. For over 15 years, Mr.
Brooks conducted engaging fire safety programs for Flower Mound and
Highland Village elementary school children while dressed as Smokey the
Bear. In addition to portraying Smokey himself, Mr. Brooks wrote the
scripts. As a commendation for his investment in children's education,
he was twice awarded the Flower Mound Fire Department Educator of the
Year award. His service-orientation ultimately also earned him the
Rotary Vocational Service Excellence Award in 2018.
From his entry into emergency response as a volunteer firefighter to
his current position as Battalion Chief, Mr. Brooks dedicated his life
and career to the safety of his community. Thanks to his encouragement
and commitment to education, his influence not only challenged young
firefighters to become reliable and competent defenders of public
safety, but also encouraged children to learn of fire dangers and
implement safety plans. The quality of life and community safety Flower
Mound residents enjoy today is a tribute to Mr. Brooks' dedicated
leadership, determination, and work ethic. It is my honor to recognize
Battalion Chief Robert K. Brooks for his public service and for the
role model he leaves for future responders to follow.