[Congressional Record Volume 150, Number 89 (Thursday, June 24, 2004)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1233-E1234]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    PAYING TRIBUTE TO BONNIE HOLTBY

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. SCOTT McINNIS

                              of colorado

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, June 23, 2004

  Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to 
pay tribute to the life and legacy of Bonnie Holtby of Prineville, 
Oregon. Bonnie bravely battled the Storm King Mountain Fire outside the 
town of Glenwood Springs, Colorado in 1994, but succumbed to the blaze 
along with thirteen fellow firefighters while working to protect the 
City. I personally served as a firefighter and understand the risks 
they face each and every day. Witnessing the awful inferno that fateful 
July day, I know Bonnie and her comrades battled the fire with the 
utmost courage and valor. With the tenth anniversary of the Storm King 
Fire approaching, I believe it appropriate to recognize the sacrifice 
Bonnie and the Storm King Firefighters made on behalf of a grateful 
community, state and nation.
  A third generation firefighter, Bonnie was in her third season with 
the Prineville Hotshots, an elite group of firefighters who specialize 
in wildland fire suppression. An exceptional student-athlete, Bonnie 
participated in basketball, track, cross-country, and weight training 
during high school, receiving numerous scholar-athlete awards. She was 
also active in 4-H, which now provides a memorial award in her honor to 
a 4-H member who exhibits leadership, sportsmanship, and overall 
success in 4-

[[Page E1234]]

H livestock and small animal projects. She was a dedicated member of 
her crew, and received a great deal of satisfaction from helping 
others. Above all, she was devoted to her family and friends.
  Mr. Speaker, it is an honor to rise before this body of Congress and 
this nation to pay tribute to the life and memory of Firefighter Bonnie 
Holtby. Bonnie personified the Hotshots credo of Safety, Teamwork and 
Professionalism; putting herself in harm's way for unfamiliar people 
and places. She made the ultimate sacrifice doing what she loved, and 
I, along with the Glenwood Springs community and the State of Colorado 
are eternally grateful to this brave young woman.

                          ____________________