[Congressional Record Volume 144, Number 67 (Friday, May 22, 1998)]
[Senate]
[Page S5471]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  HOOSIER HERO TRIBUTE TO ROBERT MOHR

 Mr. COATS. Mr. President, I take this opportunity to recognize 
Robert Mohr of Peru, Indiana, for his outstanding accomplishment this 
past week.
  You see, Mr. President, on May 12, 1998, Mr. Mohr, a conductor for 
Norfolk Southern railroad, and engineer Rod Lindley were guiding their 
96-car freight train through a residential area of Lafayette, Indiana, 
when they noticed a small child on the train tracks. With only a short 
distance between the train and the child, these men slowed the train to 
10 mph and blasted the horn, but 19-month-old Emily Marshall still 
remained on the tracks.
  Robert Mohr acted immediately and selflessly. Risking his own safety, 
he climbed onto the front of the train, reached out, and pushed the 
toddler out of harm's way. Thanks to Robert's quick reaction, Emily 
Marshall was returned to her family with only a cut on her head and a 
swollen lip.
  Mr. President, I commend Robert Mohr for this brave and selfless act, 
and that is why I am honoring him as a Hoosier Hero.
  I began the Hoosier Hero award in order to single out Hoosier men and 
women who have made significant contributions to Indiana history or 
life, while at the same time serving as an inspirational example for 
the entire nation. I can think of no greater contribution to life than 
preserving the life of a small child, such as young Emily.
  Emily Marshall, an innocent toddler who wandered onto the train 
tracks, will probably not realize for several years what Robert Mohr 
did for her. However, through Robert Mohr's courageous act, Emily now 
has the opportunity to grow healthy and strong. Emily's future is a 
bright one, full of promise because of the heroic decision Robert made 
on that spring afternoon.
  Thank you, Robert Mohr, for your courage, your bravery, and your 
selfless act of saving the life of young Emily Marshall. You are an 
inspiration to all, a true Hoosier Hero.

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