[Congressional Record Volume 144, Number 85 (Thursday, June 25, 1998)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1225]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


       A TRIBUTE TO NATIONAL PARK SERVICE RANGER JOSEPH KOLODSKI

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                         HON. CHARLES H. TAYLOR

                           of north carolina

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, June 24, 1998

  Mr. TAYLOR of North Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I was shocked and deeply 
saddened by the news last weekend of a federal law enforcement 
official's murder in my district. Ranger Joseph David Kolodski, 36, of 
the U.S. Park Service was killed in cold blood while serving our nation 
and keeping Western North Carolina communities safe. Unfortunately, 
legislative business will keep me from attending Thursday's memorial 
services, so I am sending members of my staff to convey our sympathies 
and promise that this senseless act will not go unpunished.
  A six-year veteran of the Park Service, Ranger Kolodski epitomized 
the dedication and sacrifice that protect and maintain our nation's 
natural resources. He was a devoted father and family man. Joe was also 
a dedicated member of his community. He served in his community church, 
First Baptist Church in Bryson City, North Carolina. He also 
volunteered with the Cherokee Emergency Medical Services.
  I plan to inquire of National Park Service officials what equipment 
upgrades or resources could prevent another tragedy from occurring. We 
need to guarantee that our National Parks and Forests remain safe for 
visitors and personnel. In the 82 years of the National Park Service, 
Ranger Kolodski is the third to fall in the line of duty. We need also 
to be sure the men and women who keep them safe have the tools they 
need to protect themselves!
  Finally, my thoughts and prayers are with Florie--Ranger Kolodski's 
wife of 17 years who is also a Park Ranger--and Rachel, Joseph and 
Sarah--Joseph's children. For them, Ranger Kolodski was a devoted 
husband and father. At this time of grief, I urge Members to join with 
me in conveying our sympathies to this young family and work with me to 
see that our Park Rangers have the tools they need to be safe.

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