[Congressional Record Volume 147, Number 120 (Friday, September 14, 2001)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1649-E1650]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


            HONORING THE HEROISM OF AIRLINE PILOT JASON DAHL

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. SCOTT McINNIS

                              of colorado

                    in the house of representatives

                       Friday, September 14, 2001

  Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, on September 11, 2001, we experienced the 
most vicious and horrific terrorist attack on our soil in America's 
history. This deliberate and systematic assault on innocent American 
civilians resulted in numerous fatalities. One of the hijacked planes, 
United Airlines Flight 93, en route from Newark to San Francisco, 
crashed into Stoney Creek Township in Pennsylvania. Jason Dahl--a 
resident of Ken Caryl, Colorado--was the pilot of that plane. While 
three other hijacked aircraft made it to their intended targets 
including the World Trade Center and the Pentagon, this aircraft did 
not. While we may never know exactly what transpired on that aircraft 
and particularly in the cockpit of flight 93, Jason Dahl, in one manner 
or another, gathered the courage and bravery to resist the attack and 
avoid another massive strike on America. Due to his selfless act of 
sacrifice, Mr. Speaker, I would like to pay tribute to Jason Dahl today 
and recognize him as a hero worthy of this body.
  Last week, Jason floated an e-mail to his colleagues requesting a 
switch in flights because he wanted to spend more time with his family. 
Since no one was able to take the flight from Newark to San Francisco, 
Jason fulfilled his responsibility and as a result he, his co-pilot, 38 
passengers and five flight attendants were led to their death by the 
terrorists on-board.
  Jason Dahl resided in the Ken Caryl Ranch area in Colorado. He was 
well respected and liked by his neighbors. Never shying away from the 
opportunity to extend a helping hand, Jason was a dedicated husband to 
Sandy, father to Matt, his son, and friend to many. Furthermore, he was 
a ``standards'' captain for United Airlines. This special role allowed 
Jason to not only fly aircraft, but also provided the opportunity to 
teach and test other pilots. Many of his counterparts recognized Jason 
as a very capable and skilled captain.
  Mr. Speaker, the wishes of the terrorists aboard United Flight 93 may 
never be understood, but we can deduce that something went wrong in the 
pursuit of their ultimate objective. Jason was probably the reason 
behind the

[[Page E1650]]

failure of their mission, and in so doing, he saved American lives. 
While many people died in this tragedy, we must recognize the greater 
triumph of the situation and the battle against terrorism that was 
claimed in this particular moment. Mr. Speaker, Jason Dahl emerged as a 
national hero on September 11 and I would like to acknowledge his 
patriotic sacrifice. My warmest regards and deepest sympathies are 
extended toward his family at this time of remembrance. Jason Dahl will 
be remembered as a hero who gave his life to America and we will all 
miss him dearly.

                          ____________________