[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 115 (Thursday, September 12, 2002)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1566]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    HONORING MR. ERIC MORELAND JONES

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. BARBARA LEE

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, September 12, 2002

  Ms. LEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and commend bravery and 
dedication demonstrated by my constituent, Mr. Jones who was a first 
responder at the attack on the Pentagon on September 11, 2001.
  The memories of the horrific terrorist attacks will remain with us 
forever. Yet, through the pain and adversity of these tragedies, heroes 
were also born.
  We witnessed the horrific attacks on the World Trade Centers in New 
York City, we learned of the terrible airline crash in the Pennsylvania 
countryside, and we witnessed what was once an unfathomed attack on our 
Nation's center of defense, the Pentagon.
  I have known Mr. Jones' family for many years. In the footsteps of 
his parents, he carries on a legacy of commitment to humanity though 
public service. On September 11th, Eric was driving by the Pentagon 
when it was hit by American Airline flight #77. He immediately went to 
the Pentagon site and quickly began to aid in evacuating injured and 
dying personnel from the building; he carried and helped people to 
safety and medical triage. Eric remained at his volunteer post for more 
than 72 hours.
  On July 15, 2002, Mr. Jones was one of two people to receive the 
Office of the Secretary of Defense Medal of Valor for his actions. As 
we commemorate the anniversary of the 9-11 attacks, we also pay tribute 
to thousands of first responders and volunteers like Mr. Jones who 
risked their own lives to ensure that others were saved.
  I am deeply moved by Eric's heroism and want to extend my sincere 
appreciation to him. As we take time to reflect on the events of 9-11 
on this anniversary day, we must also resolve and re-commit ourselves 
to peace and security.




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