[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 147 (Thursday, November 14, 2002)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2040]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




               TRIBUTE TO DURANGO FIRE & RESCUE AUTHORITY

                                 ______
                                 

                           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 Durango Fire & Rescue Authority for their service and 
dedication during one of Colorado's most formidable fire seasons. Last 
summer, the Fire & Rescue Authority 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 
Durango Fire & Rescue Authority 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 newly formed Durango Fire & Rescue Authority 
consolidated the efforts of the Hermosa Cliff Fire District, Animas 
Fire District, and the City of Durango Fire Department to serve the 
citizens in the Durango area and oversees 440 square mile region with a 
population of 29,700. The Durango Fire & Rescue Authority relies on a 
host of volunteer firefighters, paramedics, and support staff prepared 
to fight fires or provide medical assistance on a moment's notice.
  Mr. Speaker, it is with sincere admiration that I recognize the 
Durango Fire & Rescue Authority of Durango before this body of Congress 
and this nation. I want to commend all of the Durango Fire & Rescue 
Authority's firefighters for their determination, courage, and resolve 
during last summer's efforts on Missionary Ridge. Without the help of 
the Durango Fire & Rescue Authority and others, the added devastation 
to our community, environment, and quality of life would have been 
unimaginable. Their tireless commitment throughout the summer's 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.

                          ____________________