[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 147 (Thursday, November 14, 2002)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2037]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




          TRIBUTE TO FORT LEWIS MESA FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. SCOTT McINNIS

                              of colorado

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, November 14, 2002

  Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pride that I rise today to 
recognize the Fort Lewis Mesa Fire Protection District of Marvel, 
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 
Fort Lewis Mesa 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 Fort Lewis Mesa Fire Protection District has served 
its citizens and community since 1982 and oversees a 250 square mile 
region. The district relies upon a personnel of 28 volunteer EMT's and 
firefighters to remain on call, prepared to fight fires or provide 
medical assistance on a moment's notice.
  Mr. Speaker, it is with sincere admiration that I recognize the Fort 
Lewis Mesa Fire Protection District of Marvel, Colorado before this 
body of Congress and this nation. I want to commend the Chief and all 
of the Fire District's fire fighters for their determination, courage, 
and resolve during last summer's efforts on Missionary Ridge. Without 
the help of the Fort Lewis Mesa 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.

                          ____________________