[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 41 (Thursday, March 13, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E467]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      ELIZABETH SMART FOUND ALIVE

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. JOHN T. DOOLITTLE

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, March 13, 2003

  Mr. DOOLITTLE. Mr. Speaker, when it was reported yesterday afternoon 
that Elizabeth Smart was found alive and well, we all breathed a 
collective sigh of relief, thankful to God that, in this all too rare 
instance, there was a happy ending.
  For months, we prayed in earnest for Elizabeth's safety and for the 
Smart family, who courageously have crusaded for their daughter despite 
long odds, refusing to give up their search. Driven by faith, hope and 
love, their tenacity never wavered. Keeping the case alive, they 
created invaluable public awareness that eventually resulted in her 
safe retrieval. In particular, I would like to send my fondest wishes 
to my friend, Joy Bradford, Elizabeth's aunt who along with the Smarts 
refused to give up looking for her niece.
  I would also like to recognize the Salt Lake City community, who 
became an extended family for the Smarts, never faltering in support, 
and never relenting in a search for one of their own. Gratitude must 
also be extended to the four Sandy police officers that confronted 
Elizabeth's abductors and the people who alerted them. They are true 
heroes.
  It is difficult to express in words how relieved and overjoyed we all 
are that Elizabeth is alive and back in the arms of her loving family. 
Our prayers have been answered. Miracles do indeed happen.

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