[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 160 (Thursday, November 6, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2257]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




     HEROISM FROM FIREFIGHTERS, EMERGENCY PERSONNEL AND OTHER FIRE 
                               RESPONDERS

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. GARY G. MILLER

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, November 6, 2003

  Mr. GARY G. MILLER of Califorina. Mr. Speaker, the wildfires that 
burned across Southern California last week destroyed homes, devastated 
communities and left 20 dead in its wake. But from this horrific 
natural disaster, we witnessed heroism and determination from 
firefighters, emergency personnel and other first responders who 
put,their lives on the line to save others. But we also witnessed true 
leadership from those directing operations and coordinating efforts 
from command centers scattered throughout the state.
  One of these centers was located in the city of Rancho Cucamonga, 
which witnessed firsthand the fire's relentless march of destruction. 
At the helm of the city's strategic operations were Fire Chief Dennis 
Michael, Police Chief Pete Ortiz and City Manager Jack Lam. All three 
men, working closely with the mayor and city council, saved thousands 
of homes and protected just as many lives.
  Mayor Alexander and his colleagues on the Rancho Cucamonga city 
council also deserve high praise for planning and preparing the city 
for this type of disaster. During the crisis and aftermath that 
followed, the residents of Rancho Cucamonga have been well served. And 
under their continued leadership, the community will rebuild.
  Mr. Speaker, Rancho Cucamonga is a prosperous city nestled at the 
base of Southern California's foothill mountains. City leaders have 
dedicated their lives to ensure residents have a high quality of life, 
and because of this leadership and experience the community will 
recover.




                          ____________________