[Congressional Record Volume 156, Number 33 (Tuesday, March 9, 2010)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E337]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




INTRODUCTION OF RESOLUTION RECOGNIZING WEST VIRGINIA NATIONAL GUARD AND 
                            LOCAL RESPONDERS

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. NICK J. RAHALL II

                            of west virginia

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, March 9, 2010

  Mr. RAHALL. Madam Speaker, today I have introduced a resolution 
recognizing the heroic efforts of the West Virginia National Guard and 
local responders.
  On Thursday, February 18, 2010, the heroic actions of West Virginians 
brought about the highly successful rescue of 17 military personnel who 
were on board a U.S. Navy helicopter--participating in the Operation 
Southbound Trooper X annual military exercise, which went down in deep, 
snow-covered, and very rugged terrain in Pocahontas County, West 
Virginia.
  The remarkable rescue was an outstanding and highly coordinated 
effort on the part of many highly trained professionals as well as 
private citizens, who worked under very difficult conditions to reach 
the crew and personnel on board the aircraft, many of whom had been 
injured in the crash.
  West Virginians are the best neighbors for whom you could ever wish. 
It is a truth that has been proven time and again. This heroic rescue 
effort was, thankfully, a rare event, but it was not at all out of 
character for our State. In fact, it was merely illustrative of the 
best of West Virginia.
  The swift response; astounding skills and abilities; enormous 
courage; and, profound determination of all those involved in the 
rescue operation--from those who serve in and lead our West Virginia 
National Guard; to our local fire, rescue, law enforcement and first 
responder units; and the countless volunteers, families and neighbors 
nearby--most certainly made the difference between life and death.
  While no expression of gratitude would ever be sought for such 
selfless acts, the hope that one good turn deserves another never dims 
with West Virginians.
  On behalf of my fellow West Virginians, I'm pleased to introduce the 
following resolution to honor their good deeds, and to illuminate them 
as a beacon for others.

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