The publication is reproduced in full below:
HONORING THE SERVICE OF SOUTH CAROLINA FIREFIGHTER HOBART ERICKSON
______
HON. JEFF DUNCAN
of south carolina
in the house of representatives
Friday, February 18, 2022
Mr. DUNCAN. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the service of Mr. Hobart ``Hobie'' Erickson of Donalds, South Carolina, who has served as a first responder firefighter for over sixty-five years.
Mr. Erickson began his career as a firefighter in 1965 in New Jersey where he served for thirty years, rising to the position of Chief. In 1995, Mr. Erickson and his wife retired to Donalds, South Carolina. After being encouraged by his wife, Lois, Mr. Erickson left retirement to serve the Donalds Fire Department where he has since spent 35\1/2\ years in continued service.
In January of 2022, Mr. Erickson turned 95 years old. According to the South Carolina Firefighters Association, Mr. Erickson is the oldest of 17,000 actively serving firefighters in the state. Although he is no longer able to fight fires, Mr. Erickson is a vital member of the department where he tends to the fire trucks and answers calls for medical assistance. He attributes his health and energy to the protection of Jesus Christ and his loving wife. The younger firefighters in Donalds look up to Mr. Erickson, and he even exercises with them several hours a week. Younger firefighters gather around Mr. Erickson to hear his stories and his advice on how to treat others and how to be a successful leader.
Mr. Erickson's selfless leadership has made not only the Third District of South Carolina proud, but the entire state of South Carolina. His tireless commitment to keep his community safe and healthy for over a half of a century is something we should all aspire to have. Throughout his career, he has exemplified what it means to be a true servant leader. I am confident in the future of first responders in my district because of the example Mr. Erickson has set.
Madam Speaker, it is a privilege to be able to serve the Third District of South Carolina and to honor those who have dedicated their life to service, like Mr. Erickson. I wish Mr. Erickson and his family many more years of health and happiness.
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SOURCE: Congressional Record Vol. 168, No. 33
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