[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 51 (Monday, March 31, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E618-E619]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  RECOGNIZING THE PRINCE WILLIAM CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 2003 GOLD MEDAL 
                         VALOR AWARD RECIPIENT

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. TOM DAVIS

                              of virginia

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, March 31, 2003

  Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, every year, the Prince 
William County Chamber recognizes individuals who have courageously 
demonstrated selfless dedication to

[[Page E619]]

public safety. These outstanding men and women have played an important 
role in building a better community. This hard work and determination 
has earned several citizens of Prince William County the highest honor 
bestowed upon county public safety officials--The Gold Medal Valor 
Award.
  The Gold Medal is the highest award for bravery and heroism. It is 
awarded to emergency service officers who have knowingly placed 
themselves in peril of death or extreme harm while saving or attempting 
to save the lives of others.
  It is with great honor that I recognize Firefighter Carrie Wilson of 
the Stonewall Jackson Volunteer Fire Department as a recipient of the 
Gold Medal Valor Award. Firefighter Wilson helped to avert possible 
deaths and injuries at an apartment fire by acting quickly and 
professionally. A prime example of her bravery was when she came to the 
aid of an engine officer after a balcony railing collapsed, despite the 
burning debris pouring onto the crew. Firefighter Wilson also took part 
in the Red Cross Emergency Response Team, assisting the twenty-four 
displaced families find accommodations. The Chamber has made an 
excellent decision in awarding Carrie Wilson this prestigious honor.
  Mr. Speaker, in closing, I ask that my colleagues join me in 
congratulating this extraordinary citizen. In addition, I would like to 
take this opportunity to thank all the men and women who serve Prince 
William County. The events of September 11th served as a reminder of 
the sacrifices our emergency service workers make for us every day. 
Their constant efforts on behalf of Prince William County citizens are 
paramount to preserving security, law and order throughout our 
neighborhoods, and their individual and collective acts of heroism 
deserve our highest praise.

                          ____________________