[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 124 (Thursday, September 26, 2002)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1668]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   TRIBUTE TO FRANK AND ELI MARTINEZ

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. SCOTT McINNIS

                              of colorado

                    in the house of representatives

                     Wednesday, September 25, 2002

  Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to 
pay tribute to two brothers who were recently honored by the Alamosa 
County Sheriff's Department and the San Luis Valley Chapter of the 
American Red Cross for saving the life of a disabled Blanca, Colorado 
man at San Luis Lake. Frank Martinez and his brother Eli Martinez, both 
of Capulin, Colorado saw three men in danger of drowning in the San 
Luis Lake and with a heroic effort managed to rescue two of them. Their 
acts of bravery and valor most certainly deserve the recognition of 
this body of Congress and this Nation.
  On May 10, the Martinez brothers were enjoying themselves with a day 
by the lake. Nearby, Kelly Richard McNeil, 36, of Blanca was out 
boating with his son James Janus Edward McNeil, 16, and his son's 
friend Adam Stark, 16. The Martinez brothers witnessed Richard McNeil 
being blown from his boat into waves that were as high as four feet. 
McNeil's son and his friend jumped in immediately to try and help only 
to become victims of the rough waters. The Martinez brothers drove as 
close as they could and leaped into action. Through their quick 
response the brothers saved McNeil and helped Stark safely return to 
the boat.
  When presented with a certificate for their extraordinary action and 
Red Cross skills, the brothers simply expressed regret that they could 
not save James too. Such heroics reflect the American values second 
nature to the former Conejos law enforcement officer, Frank, and his 
brother, Eli. Their efforts show the mettle that keeps this country 
strong.
  Mr. Speaker, it is a great honor to recognize Frank and Eli Martinez 
for their courage and heroic actions. Their efforts saved the lives of 
their fellow man and their heroism is a tribute to their fine 
character. It is my honor to bring forth these acts of bravery for the 
praise of this body of Congress.

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