[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 134 (Friday, October 11, 2002)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1835]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    TRIBUTE TO CORPORAL TOBY BETHEL

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. SCOTT McINNIS

                              of colorado

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, October 10, 2002

  Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with earnest respect that I recognize 
Police Corporal Toby Bethel of Florence, Colorado for his outstanding 
courage and resolve during a period of unimaginable hardship. On 
September 28, 2001, Corporal Bethel was wounded in the line of duty and 
over the past year has overcome incredible challenges and obstacles on 
his road to recovery. In recognition of his courageous actions on 
September 28 and his astounding determination throughout his recovery 
process, I would like to pay tribute to Corporal Bethel before this 
body of Congress. -
  On September 28, 2001, Corporal Bethel was searching for two armed 
fugitives who had recently shot and killed a Fremont County Sheriff's 
Deputy. In pursuit of the fugitives, Bethel was shot four times in his 
police car, lost control of his vehicle and suffered a serious 
automobile accident. As a result of the wounds inflicted by the 
encounter, Toby suffered extensive injuries that have proven to be very 
demanding. Corporal Bethel's recovery has been slowed by his frequent 
hospitalizations over the past year, postponing his ability to regain 
his normal weight and vitality.
  Even in the face of such disheartening circumstances, Corporal Bethel 
remains optimistic and is committed to a full recovery from his 
injuries. He has been constantly working out to regain the weight, 
strength, and energy that was lost during his recovery and surgeries. 
He submits himself to a rigorous physical therapy program four days a 
week and lifts weights between sessions. Corporal Bethel is fully 
determined not to let his present situation deter his resolve; this 
test proves his strength and composure in a trying period and serves as 
a testimony to his character. Throughout this trying ordeal, his wife 
Misty has been a devoted and caring partner, inspiring Toby to give his 
all to his recovery efforts.
  Mr. Speaker, it is with great admiration that I recognize Corporal 
Toby Bethel before this body of Congress and this nation for his 
courage and character in the face of adversity. His brave conduct on 
the night of September 28, 2001, and his unwavering spirit throughout 
his recovery process, is truly a story of heroic proportions. The 
overwhelming burdens Corporal Bethel has had to bear over the past 
year, his undying hope and ceaseless optimism serve as an inspiration 
to us all. I believe we could all take a page from his book on 
determination. On behalf of the citizens of Colorado and citizens 
across the nation, I commend Corporal Toby Bethel for the sacrifice he 
has made to his country in the pursuit of justice and the security for 
his fellow citizens and wish him the best in his ongoing recovery.

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