[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 142 (Tuesday, October 21, 1997)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2025]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  INTRODUCTION OF LEGISLATION TO DECLARE A NATIONAL EMERGENCY MEDICAL 
                       SERVICES MEMORIAL SERVICE

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. BOB GOODLATTE

                              of virginia

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, October 21, 1997

  Mr. GOODLATTE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to introduce legislation, 
along with my colleague from Virginia, Congressman Goode, declaring 
that the memorial service held each year in Roanoke, VA to honor 
emergency medical services personnel be designated as the National 
Emergency Medical Services Memorial Service.
  In 1928, an aptly named gentleman from Roanoke, VA, Julian Stanley 
Wise, founded the first volunteer rescue squad, the Roanoke Life Saving 
and First Aid Crew. This organization was the forerunner of today's 
emergency medical services, or EMS, programs. Today, thousands of 
dedicated citizens give their time and energy to community rescue 
squads across the country as EMS personnel, and many have made the 
ultimate sacrifice by giving their lives for the safety and welfare of 
their fellow citizens.
  To further recognize the contributions of both Julian Wise and 
countless EMS personnel nationwide, a museum was established in Roanoke 
to pay tribute to both volunteer and career EMS personnel. This museum, 
called ``To the Rescue,'' includes a memorial ``Tree of Life,'' which 
includes a bronze oak leaf that has inscribed on it the names of all 
those who have been recognized. A National EMS Memorial Book, located 
beside the ``Tree of Life'', contains a picture and brief biography of 
each person recognized.
  In 1993, to honor EMS personnel from across the country who have died 
in the line of duty, the Virginia Association of Volunteer Rescue 
Squads, Inc., and the Julian Stanley Wise Foundation, in conjunction 
with To The Rescue, organized the first annual National Emergency 
Medical Services Memorial Service in Roanoke. Since then, the National 
EMS Memorial Service has captured national attention by honoring 119 
providers of emergency medical services from 35 States.
  The life of every American will be affected, directly or indirectly, 
by the uniquely skilled and dedicated efforts of the EMS personnel who 
work bravely and tirelessly to preserve America's greatest resource--
her people. Because the memorial service held in Roanoke is a fitting 
reminder of that bravery and sacrifice, it is only appropriate that 
Congress recognize it as the National Emergency Medical Service 
Memorial Service. Similar legislation is being introduced in the Senate 
by Senator Gregg of New Hampshire, as well as Senators Warner and Robb 
of Virginia. I join Congressman Goode in urging that the House act 
swiftly to pass this important resolution and recognize the important 
role that EMS personnel play in the life of every American citizen.

                          ____________________