[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 147 (Thursday, November 14, 2002)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2009]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




           PAYING TRIBUTE TO CORTEZ FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. SCOTT McINNIS

                              of colorado

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, November 13, 2002

  Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pride that I rise today to 
recognize the Cortez Fire Protection District based in Cortez, Colorado 
for their service and dedication during one of Colorado's most 
formidable fire seasons. Last summer, the Fire Protection District 
played an integral role in containing the Missionary Ridge forest fire 
that burned over 70,000 acres in Southwestern Colorado. Today, I would 
like to pay tribute to their heroic efforts before this body of 
Congress and this nation.
  When the Missionary Ridge fire first erupted last June, the citizens 
of Durango, Bayfield and the surrounding communities called upon the 
Cortez Fire Protection District to protect their loved ones, homes, and 
communities from what would become the worst fire in area history. The 
fire began in a ditch beside Missionary Ridge Road just 15 miles 
northeast of Durango and grew to consume more than 70,000 acres, 56 
residences, and 27 outbuildings.
  Although the Missionary Ridge fire was a devastating reminder of how 
destructive forest fires can be, it also served to remind us of the men 
and women who risk their lives to protect their fellow citizens on a 
daily basis. The Cortez Fire Protection District has served the 
citizens of Cortez since 1886 and operates from three fire stations. 
The district relies on a fulltime Fire Marshall and 36 volunteer 
firefighters, prepared to fight fires or provide medical assistance on 
a moment's notice.
  Mr. Speaker, it is with sincere admiration that I recognize the 
Cortez Fire Protection District before this body of Congress and this 
nation. I want to commend the Cortez volunteer firefighters and their 
support staff for their determination, courage, and resolve during last 
summer's efforts on Missionary Ridge. Without the help of the Cortez 
Fire Protection District and others, the added devastation to our 
community, environment, and quality of life would have been 
unimaginable. Their tireless commitment throughout the fire season has 
served as an inspiration to us all and it is an honor to represent such 
an outstanding group of Americans in this Congress.

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