[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 21 (Tuesday, March 1, 2005)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E309]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




      SALUTING PARTICIPANTS IN DISASTER RELIEF PLAN IN EAST DEER, 
                              PENNSYLVANIA

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. MELISSA A. HART

                            of pennsylvania

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, March 1, 2005

  Ms. HART. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to 
salute all the officers who took part in implementing a disaster relief 
plan on January 31, 2005 in East Deer. The members of the State 
Department of Environmental Protection, Coast Guard, Allegheny County 
hazardous materials experts, along with surrounding fire companies, 
police, mayors, and other elected officials in the East Deer area all 
responded in a way to prevent the disaster from spreading to 
surrounding communities.
  At 5:30 a.m. on January 31, a Norfolk Southern train derailed, 
causing a car of anhydrous hydrogen fluoride to begin leaking. 
Fortunately, by 6 a.m., police and firefighters began evacuating homes. 
Bridges in the surrounding area were closed before the morning rush 
hour, further isolating the leaking car. Those members who responded to 
the call that morning exemplify the ideals of leadership and bravery.
  I ask my colleagues in the United States House of Representatives to 
join me in honoring these brave offices. It is an honor to represent 
the Fourth Congressional District of Pennsylvania and a pleasure to 
salute those citizens who prevented a dangerous situation from 
escalating into a disaster, and demonstrating public service and the 
meaning of bravery.

                          ____________________