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A CEREMONIAL RESOLUTION
21-10
IN THE COUNCIL OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA
March 3, 2015
To posthumously recognize and celebrate the exceptional achievements and long-time dedicated service of District resident and distinguished firefighter Charles Chamberlin on the 50th anniversary of his passing in the line of duty.
WHEREAS, Private Charles M. Chamberlin, Jr., was a lifelong resident of the District of Columbia, born on April 14, 1912;
WHEREAS, Private Chamberlin, served as a firefighter in the District from 1937-1965; in 1943, 1946, and 1953 he was commended for various meritorious services, including rescuing a distressed civilian, and in 1954 was named firefighter of the year;
WHEREAS, Private Chamberlin served in multiple fire houses and held many positions in the District, including Chief’s Aid for Battalion 5, where his job was to work between those inside a fire and the Battalion Chief stationed outside, before the implementation of cellphones and radios;
WHEREAS, Private Chamberlin, was always eager to give his service to those sick or wounded, earning him the nickname “Doc,” and was responsible for the founding and smooth operation of the DC Fireman’s Blood Bank;
WHEREAS, “Doc,” for those who knew him, donated 52 pints of blood through the American Red Cross for the use of the Armed Forces or for other purposes for which there was a need;
WHEREAS, on February 28, 1965, Private Chamberlin responded to a fire at Uptown Restaurant and Lounge, located at 3433 Connective Avenue, N.W., and subsequently fell victim to a massive heart attack and passed away at the age of 54; and
WHEREAS, Private Chamberlin was a devoted family man to his wife and son; he was an active member of his church, a Mason, served as a den father to a Cub Scout pack, and on the executive committee of the Boy Scouts of America; he was known by his contemporaries as one always ready to help for a good cause.
IT IS HEREBY RESOLVED, BY THE COUNCIL OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA, that the District of Columbia is grateful for Private Chamberlin’s commitment to our city and recognizes his outstanding citizenship on the anniversary of his passing; he is a model for all to emulate.
Sec. 2. This resolution may be cited as the “Private Charles M. Chamberlin, Jr. Posthumous Recognition Resolution of 2015”.
Sec. 3. This resolution shall take effect immediately upon the first date of publication in the District of Columbia Register.
