[Congressional Record Volume 152, Number 124 (Thursday, September 28, 2006)]
[Senate]
[Page S10452]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  TRIBUTE TO NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE

 Mr. BAUCUS. Mr. President, I wish to commend the National 
Weather Service and the Billings, MT office.
  This year Billings, MT, hosted the 13th national signature event 
commemorating the Bicentennial of the Lewis and Clark Corps of 
Discovery Exploration. The event at Pompeys Pillar was one of the most 
successful signature events in the country, and I was proud to 
participate in the opening ceremonies.
  A great deal of preparation and partnership went into the planning 
surrounding those 4 days in July and the thousands of visitors expected 
to attend. Federal agencies stepped up to the table. Federal 
partnerships were key to this success. Specific concern centered on 
area wildfires already burning that had been started by lightning 
strikes from afternoon and evening storms. The National Weather Service 
took on major responsibility for these weather-related public safety 
issues.
  On Saturday, July 22 and Sunday, July 23, late afternoon storms 
accompanied by upwards of 60-mph winds necessitated rapid evacuations 
of the public events at Pompeys Pillar. Efficient communication and 
clear direction from the National Weather Service, in coordination with 
the Bureau of Land Management, provided safe passage out of Pompeys 
Pillar in a swift and orderly fashion for the remaining public 
visitors, volunteers, and employees on those days.
  It is apparent that the storm's effect and damage could have easily 
become a larger story attributed to the Pompeys Pillar signature event. 
That it was not is a testament to the science, technology, and public 
service and dedication of your agency and of your employees. Thanks to 
all of you for what you do for Montana. It is a job well done.

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