[Congressional Record Volume 154, Number 60 (Wednesday, April 16, 2008)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E630]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




            ON THE ANNIVERSARY OF THE VIRGINIA TECH TRAGEDY

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. RICK BOUCHER

                              of virginia

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, April 16, 2008

  Mr. BOUCHER. Madam Speaker, I have the privilege of representing 
Virginia's Ninth Congressional District, of which Virginia Tech is a 
part.
  One year ago, a tragedy of a scale and senselessness that defied 
explanation befell the university, and it came to a campus that is 
known across the Nation for its friendliness, peacefulness and close 
association among students and faculty.
  In the year that has passed, an incredible spirit of cohesion and 
determination and a generous outpouring of support from across the 
Nation have benefited the campus, and much healing has occurred.
  The university's proud traditions and its reputation as an exemplary 
institution of teaching, learning and research have carried on, and the 
resilience of students, faculty and the community has assured for 
Virginia Tech a strong recovery.
  Today as we remember the enormous loss of young lives full of promise 
and mature lives of major contribution from a violent and inexplicable 
act, we also remember the poise and dignity with which the university's 
faculty and administration responded in a time of uncertainty;
  The courage of the Virginia Tech, Montgomery County and Blacksburg 
first responders in a time of emergency;
  The heroism of those who risked personal safety to prevent further 
loss of life;
  The generosity of those who offered their support and financial 
contributions to the victims and their families in their time of 
greatest need;
  And the remarkable spirit of the Virginia Tech community and 
resilience of our region when faced with great tragedy.
  Today, as we remember an act of great violence, we also remember 
Virginia Tech's strong resurgence, and we look forward and are 
committed to its even greater future.

                          ____________________