[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 44 (Thursday, April 18, 2002)]
[Senate]
[Page S2947]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         TRIBUTE TO RAY SUMMERS

 Mr. SMITH of New Hampshire. Mr. President, today I show my 
support for Ray Summers of Manchester, NH. His heroic actions and 
dedication to his country saved two fellow citizens and helped to 
discover numerous bodies that were buried beneath the rubble at Ground 
Zero. He put his own life on the line to bring comfort to a Nation.
  Ray was interning at Shea Stadium when the World Trade Center 
Buildings collapsed on September 11, 2001, one of the most catastrophic 
days in our Nation's history. As a trained EMT, Ray answered a call 
from the New York City emergency authorities who desperately needed his 
support at Ground Zero. He was escorted to the scene, given rescue 
equipment, and immediately began to search for victims.
  Ray searched for survivors and cleaned up rubble for about 72 hours, 
taking little time to rest or eat. He encountered several near death 
experiences, including nearly being crushed by the collapsing Liberty 
Plaza Building. He and another rescuer found two Port Authority 
officers still alive. They uncovered the two officers and carried them 
to safety.
  I commend the selfless acts of Ray Summers. It takes true courage and 
honor to put somebody else's life and their country above one's own 
life. I am confident that as long as we have people like Ray Summers, 
our Nation will continue to be strong. New Hampshire is proud to have 
such a dedicated citizen. It is an honor to represent him in the U.S. 
Senate.

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