[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 176 (Tuesday, December 9, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2511]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        TRIBUTE TO MIKE ALSDORF

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. SCOTT McINNIS

                              of colorado

                    in the house of representatives

                        Monday, December 8, 2003

  Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to rise and pay tribute to 
my friend Mike Alsdorf. Mike is retiring after 25 years of devoted 
service with the Glenwood Springs, Colorado Fire Department. I have 
personally witnessed Mike's selfless and courageous service on behalf 
of the citizens of my hometown and I am proud to call his contributions 
to the attention of this body of Congress and our nation.
  As a firefighter and arson investigator, Mike's career has been 
defined by great ability and outstanding courage. Over a quarter 
century ago, Mike and I attended fireman training together. It was 
clear from the outset that Mike was a natural leader who would become 
an excellent fireman.
  In the face of danger, Mike has an uncanny ability to assume control 
and quickly orchestrate the best approach to any emergency. As an arson 
investigator, Mike used his vast knowledge, and his strong conviction, 
to prevent additional fires and ensure that justice was done. I have 
great respect for Mike's ability as a fireman and investigator.
  Mike served courageously in the face of some of the worst disasters 
ever to occur in the Mountain West. He fought bravely to protect his 
fellow citizens in the Rocky Mountain Gas Explosion, the fires on Storm 
King Mountain and the recent Coal Seam Fire of 2002. In addition to his 
work as a fireman, Mike continues to serve as a dedicated Red Cross 
Volunteer. In this capacity, Mike has worked to improve the Red Cross 
communications system, organized disaster assessment teams and provided 
victims of disasters with lodging, food, clothing and counseling.
  Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to rise and pay tribute to Mike Alsdorf. 
The citizens of Glenwood Springs are certainly better off as the result 
of Mike's tireless dedication to their safety. Mike will be missed as a 
member of the Glenwood Springs Fire Department. However, he will now 
have more time to spend with his four children, his beautiful wife Lynn 
and his many friends throughout Glenwood Springs. Thanks Mike. I 
appreciate your friendship and your service to our town.

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