NEW CASTLE COUNTY, DE (May 10, 2013) – The 25th Annual National Fire and Emergency Services Dinner & Seminars were held on May 8-9, 2013 in Washington, D.C. It was hosted by the Congressional Fire Services Institute (CFSI). County Executive Thomas P. Gordon attended this event on May 9, 2013. The theme was "Renewing Our Commitment." County Executive Gordon is in agreement with the underlying meaning associated with this theme as presented by the CFSI: "We must continue our efforts to advocate for the needs of our one million firefighters and emergency services personnel-whether at the federal, state or local level." The mission of the CFSI is to educate Congress about the fire and emergency services.
Delaware was well represented. Vice President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. was present. Senator Thomas R. Carper served as an Honorary Co-Chairman. The Delaware Volunteer Firefighter's Association was a Diamond sponsor. Representatives from fire service agencies throughout the State of Delaware were present.
CFSI/MedicAlert Awards were presented for 2012 Best Practices in the categories of Career Fire Departments, Volunteer Fire Departments, and Combination Fire Departments. The Odessa (DE) Fire Company previously received a 2011 CFSI/MedicAlert Award in the Volunteer Department Category.