Whereas, on February 28, 1918, delegates representing 24 firefighter unions united to form the International Association of Fire Fighters (referred to in this preamble as the IAFF ) to organize all fire fighters … foster a higher degree of skill and efficiency … improve and protect members’ health and welfare … establish safety standards … cultivate friendship and fellowship … provide proper compensation for work performed … and improve social and economic conditions ; Whereas, in 1918, at the first IAFF Convention, the IAFF adopted 20 resolutions to benefit firefighters and the fire service, including resolutions relating to— (1) a two-platoon system; (2) pension laws; (3) automatic sprinkler systems; (4) building inspections; and (5) the removal of hazards for fire prevention; Whereas, throughout the history of the IAFF, the IAFF has successfully improved the knowledge, skills and abilities of the domestic defenders of the people of the United States by designing, developing, and deploying high quality standardized training in a multitude of disciplines, including— (1) hazardous materials response; (2) responding to incidents involving weapons of mass destruction; (3) confined space operations; (4) responding to incidents involving illicit drug labs; and (5) planning and responding to high-consequence incidents; Whereas the IAFF has been the national leader in every significant firefighter health and safety initiative for nearly a century, including— (1) the recognition of and fight against occupational diseases and illnesses, such as cancer and cardiovascular ailments; (2) the promotion of physical fitness screening and training; and (3) the promotion of mental health and wellness, including awareness and treatment of post-traumatic stress