[Congressional Record Volume 147, Number 130 (Tuesday, October 2, 2001)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1770]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




     TRIBUTE TO THE CENTRAL JACKSON COUNTY FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. SAM GRAVES

                              of missouri

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, October 2, 2001

  Mr. GRAVES. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Central 
Jackson County Fire Protection District for its work and sacrifice in 
honor of all the people who both survived and who lost their lives in 
the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001, their families and their 
friends.
  These terrorist attacks mark a solemn moment in America's history. 
American men and women, civilians and soldiers, firefighters and 
police, mothers and fathers, were slain for a cause so terrible, so 
heinous, and so despicable that we find it unimaginable and 
indescribable. United, Americans seek to find meaning and hope in a 
seemingly hopeless and meaningless act. In the days since these 
terrible terrorist attacks, America has been shoulder-to- shoulder in a 
struggle to meet the challenges of a world that is a little less safe, 
a little scarier, and far less predictable. The efforts of 
organizations like the Central Jackson County Fire Protection District 
signify the commitment and concern of Americans everywhere. Our 
nation's strength does not lie in her military might but rather in the 
collective compassion of its people.
  Since the September 11th terrorist attacks, the Central Jackson 
County Fire Protection District has participated in the ``Pass the 
Boot'' activities at Arrowhead Stadium raising thousands of dollars to 
assist in the rescue efforts including the 9-11 Relief Fund, the Red 
Cross, and to provide for the grieving families. The patriotism and 
persistence of the Central Jackson County Fire Protection District is a 
lasting memorial to the thousands of victims who perished in New York, 
Washington, and Pennsylvania.
  Through the days, weeks, and months ahead, all Americans must come 
together and do what they can to assist the nation's war effort. 
Whether it is giving blood, sending donations, praying for the 
thousands of grieving families, or simply saying thanks to the brave 
men and women who put their lives on the line each and every day so 
that we may be free, it is important that the American people are 
vigilant in their efforts to overcome this evil. Though our nation has 
witnessed unspeakable horror, America's virtues, determination, and 
faith continues to shine brightly on the world.
  I am confident that the United States will seek out those that harbor 
hatred, terror, and depravity in their hearts; and we will defeat them. 
This is a war that we must, can, and will win. May God bless the 
families and children grieving across this great nation and may God 
bless America.

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