[Congressional Record Volume 150, Number 90 (Friday, June 25, 2004)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1262]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


[[Page E1262]]
                     PAYING TRIBUTE TO SCOTT BLECHA

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. SCOTT McINNIS

                              of colorado

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, June 24, 2004

  Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to 
pay tribute to the life and legacy of Scott Blecha of Clatskanie, 
Oregon. Scott 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 everyday. Witnessing the awful inferno that fateful 
July day, I know Scott and his 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 
Scott and the Storm King Firefighters made on behalf of a grateful 
community, state and nation.
  Born and raised in Clatskanie, Scott graduated with honors from 
Clatskanie High School where a scholarship is named in his honor. After 
graduating, he answered his nation's call to duty and joined the United 
States Marines. After a four-year tour, Scott attended the Oregon 
Institute of Technology, graduating cum laude with a degree in 
Mechanical Engineering Technology. During the summers, he worked as a 
Prineville Hotshot, an elite group of firefighters who specialize in 
wildland fire suppression. Scott loved the job, enjoying the close 
camaraderie of his crew and the satisfaction of knowing he was helping 
others. Above all, he was devoted to his 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 Scott 
Blecha. Scott personified the Hotshots credo of Safety, Teamwork and 
Professionalism; putting himself in harms way for unfamiliar people and 
places. He made the ultimate sacrifice doing what he loved, and I, 
along with the Glenwood Springs community and the State of Colorado are 
eternally grateful to this brave young man.

                          ____________________