[Congressional Record Volume 144, Number 111 (Friday, August 7, 1998)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1613]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




HONORING THE 111TH SECURITY POLICE SQUADRON, PENNSYLVANIA AIR NATIONAL 
                                 GUARD

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. ROBERT A. BORSKI

                            of pennsylvania

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, August 6, 1998

  Mr. BORSKI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and give thanks to the 
111th Security Police Squadron, Pennsylvania Air National Guard. These 
admirable Pennsylvania citizens provided heroic assistance during the 
1996 Olympic games in Atlanta, Georgia when a bomb exploded in 
Centennial Park.
  Approximately 1300 Security Policemen and women were assembled by the 
Air National Guard Bureau to serve as a uniformed presence on the 
streets of Atlanta along with various other Olympic sites. This brave 
group of men and women were the eyes and ears of a special civilian 
force that maintained security. Twenty-six of these Security Police 
were the men and women of the 111th Security Police Squadron from 
Willow Grove Air Reserve Station, Pennsylvania.
  During their Friday night shift, on July 25, 1996, a bomb went off in 
the Olympic Park area. This tragic event was alleviated by the 
commitment and dedication of the 111th Security Police Squadron. They 
assisted Atlanta police officers with the evacuation of the park while 
clearing the crowds that had assembled around the disaster area. The 
squadron ensured that the emergency roads were opened for ambulances, 
fire trucks and police cars, in addition to other emergency vehicles. 
Atlanta's inbound and outbound roads were cleared by members of the 
111th Security forces which made for a rapid entrance and exit of 
emergency vehicles. In turn, this ensured that those who were injured 
in the explosion were transported to nearby hospitals for immediate 
medical attention.
  These proud Pennsylvania civilians assisted in bringing peace and 
order to the turmoil in the streets of Atlanta after the devastating 
bombing. Approximately 120 injured people were transported to area 
hospitals while the Olympic Park site was secured and the fearful 
masses were calmed. Amazingly, the Security Forces patrolled their 
afternoon shifts the very next day.
  The members of the 111th National Guard should be applauded for their 
noble efforts to provide for the well-being of their fellow citizens. 
Their devotion proves that they are true American heroes. I ask you to 
join me in thanking these brave men and women for their commitment in 
keeping our nation safe.

                          ____________________