State Fire Marshal Jim Walker is encouraging communities across the state to honor the work of those in the fire service by organizing events or ceremonies for Fire Service Appreciation Day in Oregon, Friday, January 27. “Communities have many opportunities to get involved and recognize the work and sacrifice of members of the Oregon fire service,” says State Fire Marshal Jim Walker. “From community groups hosting a breakfast, lunch, or dinner, to schools holding essay contests, this day is an opportunity for everyone to say thanks.” In 2007, the Oregon legislature passed House Joint Resolution 25, establishing January 27 each year, as Fire Service Appreciation Day in Oregon. The Legislative Assembly encourages all Oregonians to recognize and honor fire service members for their efforts to keep our citizens safe from the ravages of fire. Local recognition in past years included city mayors presenting fire chiefs with a certificate of thanks, fire district boards presenting commemorative coins and certificates to volunteers, newspaper articles and special ads thanking members of the fire service, and citizens taking local firefighters to lunch. You can read the full text of House Joint Resolution 25 here http://www.oregon.gov/OSP/SFM/docs/Comm_Ed/hjr0025_en_pdf.pdf