[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 161 (Monday, November 2, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2682]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   NATIONAL FIREFIGHTERS MEMORIAL DAY

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                           HON. MIKE QUIGLEY

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, October 28, 2009

  Mr. QUIGLEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to speak in support of 
designating a National Firefighters Memorial Day. The dedicated men and 
women who have lost their lives in the line of duty will never be 
forgotten and I express my deepest gratitude for the brave work they 
did protecting their communities.
  Firefighters are the ones running into a burning building when 
everyone else is running out. The sacrifices they and their families 
make on a daily basis are as incredible as they are honorable. These 
men and women embody the spirit, commitment and sacrifice that define 
America.
  The images of firefighters on September 11, 2001 left an indelible 
mark on all Americans. We saw firefighters entering flaming buildings, 
putting others' lives ahead of their own, and standing tall when they 
were needed most. Their courage continues to both haunt and inspire us.
  But we must remember that everyday firefighters across the country 
are still performing heroic acts and saving lives. Since 2006, 313 
firefighters have died on the job. And every year, another 40,000 are 
injured. Firefighters are constantly called on to put themselves in 
harm's way and those that are no longer with us deserve to be 
recognized and celebrated.
  I want to thank Representative Poe for bringing House Resolution 729 
to the Floor and urge the rest of my colleagues to join me in 
designating a National Firefighters Memorial Day to commemorate the 
lives of our fallen firefighters.

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