Energy And Water Development And Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2008

Floor Speech

ENERGY AND WATER DEVELOPMENT AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS ACT, 2008 -- (House of Representatives - June 19, 2007)

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Mr. BROWN of South Carolina. Mr. Chairman, last night, nine brave firefighters from my district lost their lives in the line of duty. Responding to a fire in the West Ashley area of Charleston, these men made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our community in what was the single worst loss of firefighters since 9/11. This tragedy is a somber reminder of the dangers our first responders face on a daily basis as they serve to protect us and our property. We are forever grateful for their service and deeply sadden by their loss.

Our hearts and prayers go out to the families of these courageous men: Captain William ``Billy'' Hutchinson, Captain Mike Benke, Captain Louis Mulkey, Engineer Mark Kelsey, Engineer Bradford ``Brad'' Baity, Assistant Engineer Michael French, Firefighter James ``Earl'' Drayton, Firefighter Brandon Thompson and Firefighter Melven Champaign.

These men, who had over 100 years of service among them, gave their lives doing a job they loved.

I now yield to my good friend, Mr. Clyburn.

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