[Congressional Record Volume 147, Number 160 (Monday, November 19, 2001)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2128]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




   EXPRESSING THE SENSE OF CONGRESS REGARDING THE CRASH OF AMERICAN 
                          AIRLINES FLIGHT 587

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                               speech of

                          HON. JOSEPH CROWLEY

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                       Friday, November 16, 2001

  Mr. CROWLEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of this important 
resolution expressing the feelings of this body regarding the crash of 
American Airlines Flight 587. I commend my colleague from New York, Mr. 
Weiner, for sponsoring such an appropriate measure in the immediate 
aftermath of this tragic event. The resolution speaks for itself, but I 
would like to speak on behalf of those in the 7th District who have 
been hurt, in very different ways, by this tragedy.
  First, I would like to express my condolences to the families and 
friends of those who died. There are many in my District, including 
myself, who have personal links with the area that has been hit. My 
mother grew up in the Rockaways just blocks from the crash site, and my 
aunt still lives there today. There are many others with similar ties 
to this neighborhood. We all hope that the community there will come 
together and recover both swiftly and strongly. The events of September 
11th, have really hit this wonderful community hard. It is going to 
take even more courage and strength for this neighborhood to rebuild.
  Second, I would like to pay tribute to the many individuals who 
selflessly and instinctively threw themselves into the rescue efforts. 
There acts were a noble reminder of the heroism displayed only weeks 
before, during the terrorist attacks of the World Trade Center, which 
touched the hearts of us all. The emergency services once again lived 
up to their outstanding reputation and performed with dedicated 
professionalism. Once again, several volunteers disregarded their 
personal safety and helped any way they could. Twice now in two months 
tragedy has hit our city from the air; twice also has the brave 
endeavor of our people risen to meet that challenge.
  Finally, I would like to express my empathy with the loss that has 
been borne by the Dominican people both in the Dominican Republic and 
in New York. This is a grievous blow to the community, much of it 
residing in the 7th District, which is home to many Dominicans by 
either birth or descent. In particular, it is a personal tragedy for 
many individuals and families. We can only have hope in the natural 
resilience and camaraderie of the Dominican community to support all 
concerned in this bleak hour.
  We here in Congress do express our sympathy and admiration for all 
that has happened. But we must also once again strive to ensure that 
all was not in vain and lessons shall be learned from this catastrophe.

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