A house RESOLUTION

 

To recognize and honor Steve Horton upon the occasion of his retirement, to commend him for his many years of dedicated service, and to wish him much happiness and fulfillment in the years ahead. 

 

Whereas, the members of the South Carolina House of Representatives are pleased to recognize Steve Horton upon the occasion of his retirement from the Mayo Fire Department in Spartanburg County; and

 

Whereas, the young Steve Horton began his career with the Mayo Fire Department under the tutelage of his father, Ben, who was a member of the fire department in its infancy stages dating back to 1961; and

 

Whereas, Steve recalls the early days of operating second-hand equipment and building apparatuses   with donated parts and components, while operating out of a crude shed built into a dug-out bank, affectionately known as "the hole"; and

 

Whereas, in the 1970s the fire department witnessed improvements in facilities and equipment for fire protection in the Mayo community with Steve being an integral part in leading the community and department in providing fire service and doing "more with less" as funding was miniscule in those early years; and

 

Whereas, the 1980s saw the aging and retirement of many charter members in the fire department.  In 1987, Mr. Horton ascended from firefighter to the integral role of Chief, all the while, he was contributing to the success and growth of the department; and

 

Whereas, in 1993 Mayo purchased its first brand-new fire engine.  As the 1990s progressed, the department began to see funding from tax revenues making a positive impact in the department.  During this time Chief Horton continued to lead conservatively and with a forward-thinking mindset; and

 

Whereas, the early 2000s proved to be the most transformational years of the department, with the   acquisition of two new fire stations and several pieces of integral equipment which improved the departments service to the community and more favorable ISO ratings; and

 

Whereas, for his exemplary leadership and tireless service of over fifty years, thirty-eight as Chief, the House of Representatives is delighted to extend best wishes to Chief Horton as he transitions to a well-deserved retirement in the days ahead.  Now, therefore,

 

Be it resolved by the House of Representatives:

 

That the members of the South Carolina House of Representatives, by this resolution, recognize and honor Steve Horton upon the occasion of his retirement, to commend him for his many years of dedicated service, and wish him much happiness and fulfillment in the years ahead.   

 

Be it further resolved that a copy of this resolution be presented to Chief Steve Horton.

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