Congressman Hoyer has been a champion for firefighters, law enforcement and other first responders. He has fought to ensure that these brave men and women are provided with adequate resources to keep our communities safe and has worked to address the quality of life issues that are unique to those who protect us.
Working closely with firefighters from Maryland and around the country, Congressman Hoyer helped establish the Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program, which helps equip and train local fire and EMS departments throughout the country. Over $15 million has been awarded to Fifth District fire departments since the program's creation in 2001. He also helped establish the Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) Program, which enables career and volunteer fire departments to hire new firefighters, recruit and retain volunteers, and provide relief to the thousands of local fire stations across the country short of staff.
He has also worked to ensure our local police departments have the equipment necessary to fight crime and protect our communities. Working with his Washington Metropolitan Area colleagues, Congressman Hoyer has spearheaded the effort to combat the gang problem in Prince George's and Montgomery Counties by helping establish and fund the Joint County Task Force. Congressman Hoyer also supported the COPS Hiring Recovery Program, which has strong support from Fifth District Police Departments.
Last month, I stood with many of you at the west front of the U.S. Capitol Building as American flags began their journey here in memory of our fallen heroes. And as they wave in the wind over the homes of family members, they will represent the sorrow and the gratitude of our entire nation
As we mark thirteen years since the heinous attack on our country on September 11, we come together to remember the 2,977 Americans who were taken from their families, friends, and communities. In the Fifth District, we offer the families affected our thoughts, our prayers, and a promise that their loved ones who were lost on that tragic day will never be forgotten.
I've been involved with the [Congressional] Fire Services Caucus since shortly after [former Representative] Curt Welden, a former [fire] chief in Pennsylvania, started the Fire Services Caucus. It is the largest caucus in the Congress. It is the largest Caucus, as [Congressmen] Bill Pascrell, Peter King, and Dave Reichert will tell you, because we know that the fire service is such an integral part of every community in America.
Each year, I'm proud to see members of the community come together with law enforcement personnel and others to raise awareness about drug and crime prevention during National Night Out.
I'm pleased to announce that Ridge Volunteer Fire Department has been awarded a substantial grant to support operations and improve safety.
After meeting with the Maryland State Fireman's Association this week and discussing the needs of the fire serves community in our state, I'm very pleased to announce this grant funding.
Across our state, Maryland's fire fighters form the backbone of our strong communities, and I am honored to stand with them as they carry out the work of protecting our communities from the ravages of fire.
Today's announcement of grant funding for the Hughesville Volunteer Fire Department and Rescue Squad is excellent news for our community.
I am pleased that the President signed bipartisan legislation, H.R. 4120, into law today, which I was proud to co-sponsor along with Rep. Frank Wolf of Virginia.