[Congressional Record Volume 152, Number 95 (Wednesday, July 19, 2006)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1462]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




          TRIBUTE TO THE ANNIVERSARY OF THE BIG THOMPSON FLOOD

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                        HON. MARILYN N. MUSGRAVE

                              of colorado

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, July 19, 2006

  Mrs. MUSGRAVE. Mr. Speaker, I rise to commemorate the 30th 
anniversary of Colorado's Big Thompson Flood.
  On July 31, 1976, residents and visitors in the Big Thompson Canyon 
suffered the unspeakable horror of one of the worst natural disasters 
in Colorado history.
  I will never forget when the news started to break and the tragedy 
started to unfold.
  In just a few hours, more than a foot of rain fell in the area 
surrounding the Big Thompson River, causing a wall of water over 20 
feet tall to sweep through the canyon. In its wake, the flood claimed 
the lives of 144 people and left many others homeless. In all, over 400 
homes and dozens of businesses were destroyed.
  As we pause to commemorate the tragic events of 30 years ago, we 
remember the many lives that were taken from us by the waters of the 
Big Thompson and offer our thoughts and prayers for those they left 
behind.
  It is often said that the worst of circumstances bring forth the best 
in people. In the hours and weeks following the disaster, the community 
surrounding Big Thompson Canyon displayed unparalleled graciousness and 
compassion. From the heroic rescuers who plucked survivors from the 
craggy canyon walls, to the countless others who gave their time, 
talents and resources, we saw the best of the American spirit in the 
wake of disaster.
  Mr. Speaker, today Big Thompson Canyon and, more significantly, the 
lives of those touched by the flood still bear the scars from that 
terrible July night. As we mark the 30th anniversary of one of the 
worst natural disasters in Colorado history, I urge my colleagues to 
join me in remembering those who lost their lives and the countless 
others whose lives have been forever changed by the Big Thompson Flood.




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