[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 97 (Friday, June 27, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1400]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                          TRIBUTE TO RICK LUPE

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. SCOTT McINNIS

                              of colorado

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, June 26, 2003

  Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with profound sadness that I rise 
before this body of Congress and this nation today to pay tribute to a 
true American hero. Rick Lupe recently passed away from injuries 
sustained while battling a prescribed burn on the Fort Apache Indian 
Reservation near Whiteriver, Arizona. I am saddened by his death and 
would like to take a moment to reflect on the courage and leadership of 
this honorable and distinguished individual.
  Rick previously made headlines during another fire that took place 
last summer. When the Rodeo-Chediski fire scorched much of Arizona, 
Rick engineered a fire line at the last minute, using a back burn and 
bulldozers that helped save the town of Show Low. Such acts of courage 
are no surprise to those who knew him. In nearly two decades of service 
to the Fort Apache Hotshot crew, Rick developed a reputation as a 
strong but quiet leader, a loyal colleague, and trusted friend.
  Rick possessed courage and toughness to spare. While checking on a 
hot spot recently, the wind picked up and blew the flames around him. 
When the shelter he tried to deploy blew away, Rick dropped to the 
ground to allow the fire to pass over him. Even though the flames and 
heat scorched him, leaving 3rd degree burns over 40 percent of his 
body, he summoned the strength to walk a half-mile to get help. Even 
then, Rick held on for five weeks before leaving us. He will be 
especially missed by his beloved wife Evelyn and his children Brent, 
Sean, and Daniel. I would like to extend my deepest sympathy to them 
during this difficult time.
  Mr. Speaker, I am honored to recognize Rick Lupe today. His immediate 
family will remember Rick for the loving husband and father that he 
was. The town of Show Low, the Fort Apache Hotshots, and this nation 
will remember Rick as the hero that he was. Rick dedicated his life to 
serving his nation and his fellow citizens. We will always be grateful.

                          ____________________