[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 113 (Tuesday, September 2, 1997)]
[Senate]
[Page S8672]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         BRAVERY IN YACOLT, WA

 Mr. GORTON. Mr. President, I want to recognize an Explorer 
Scout whose bravery and quick thinking saved the life of his friend. On 
July 3, 1997, a group of friends went swimming near Sunset Falls in 
Yacolt, WA. Recent flooding had altered the depth of the water where 
the friends chose to go diving. Not recognizing the change in depth, 
Kade Vance dove from a rock into the natural pool below. Moments later, 
he surfaced in a dead man's float, bleeding from his head. Robby 
Loomis, a trained Explorer Scout, immediately swam to his friend's aid 
and turned him on his back to allow him to breathe. Robby conversed 
with Kade, making sure he remained conscious. Kade indicated he could 
not feel his legs and that his strength was quickly deteriorating.
  For more than 40 minutes, Robby kept Kade afloat in water that was 
only 60 degrees. Despite his dropping temperature and diminishing 
strength, Robby helped move Kade closer to shore where the emergency 
medical team could reach them. Robby used his own body as a shield to 
protect his injured friend from further damage by rocks near the 
shoreline. As a result of Robby Loomis' courageous efforts, and due to 
his Explorer Scout training, Kade Vance's life was saved. I would like 
to recognize the bravery and heroism displayed by Robby Loomis and 
congratulate him on his valiant efforts.

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