Honoring our Fallen Firefighters

Floor Speech

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Mr. PAULSEN. Mr. Speaker, our Nation's firefighters sign up for the job knowing the dangers they will often face in order to keep their communities safe. Tragically, we have seen these first responders give their lives in service to others.

This past Sunday the 2015 Minnesota Fallen Firefighter Memorial Service took place on the State Capitol grounds to honor the 9 Minnesota firefighters--and 216 nationwide--that have passed away in the line of duty this year.

The event honors the sacrifice that these firefighters have made and also provides support for their families who are coping with a profound loss.

As policymakers, it is important that we recognize what our first responders go through on a daily basis and support them. Earlier this year Congress passed my legislation, which is now law, that ensures that survivor benefits for families of those killed in the line of duty are not taxed.

Mr. Speaker, we are blessed that so many men and women sign up to put themselves in harm's way to keep others safe. For those that give their life, we must not forget their sacrifice.

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