[Congressional Record Volume 145, Number 38 (Wednesday, March 10, 1999)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E378]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        TRIBUTE TO LOUIS BRYANT

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. ANNE M. NORTHUP

                              of kentucky

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, March 10, 1999

  Mrs. NORTHUP. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a teacher from my 
district who has received national recognition for his exemplary 
courage and selflessness in the face of adversity. Mr. Louis Bryant of 
Louisville is a social studies teacher at Ballard High School who 
recently accompanied a group of students to Ghana, Africa, on a 
cultural exchange program. During an afternoon excursion the group's 
bus was in a terrible accident. Mr. Bryant--the most seriously injured 
passenger--refused to leave his students even though he had been told 
that, without an immediate airlift to the United States and emergency 
surgery, he could lose his hand.
  The U.S. Embassy in Ghana reported that Mr. Bryant ignored his own 
injuries and instead tried to keep his students optimistic and upbeat. 
He remained at the hospital in Ghana with his students until they all 
returned home together. Nearly 4 weeks later, Mr. Bryant still is 
undergoing painful surgery and rehabilitation in an effort to save his 
hand. Not once, however, has he expressed regret about his decision to 
remain with his students.
  Without question, Mr. Bryant's dedication, courage, and self-
sacrifice warrant the admiration of his community and this Nation. He 
is evidence that there are heroes among us. I heartily applaud Mr. 
Bryant and, once again, wish to express to him the gratitude that all 
members of the Louisville community feel for his heroic actions.

                          ____________________