[Congressional Record Volume 156, Number 53 (Thursday, April 15, 2010)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E571]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


    HONORING COAL MINERS FROM UPPER BIG BRANCH MINE IN WEST VIRGINIA

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                             HON. AL GREEN

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, April 14, 2010

  Mr. AL GREEN of Texas. Mr. Speaker, today, I extend my condolences to 
the community of Raleigh County, West Virginia, as it mourns the loss 
of 29 miners in the collapse of the Upper Big Branch Mine-South, the 
worst U.S. mining disaster in decades. I also would like to express my 
heartfelt condolences to the families of victims who perished in the 
collapse.
  The profession of coal mining is important not only to our nation's 
past, but also to its future, as we search for alternatives to our 
dependence on foreign oil. These professions power our economies and 
shape our culture.
  I commend the tireless efforts of Raleigh County's first responders, 
as well as the volunteer efforts of those trained in mine rescue, and 
for the long hours they devoted to save the lives of the trapped 
miners.
  The role of Congress in securing the health and safety of coal miners 
is essential and important. I take my role in the process of ensuring 
that violations of safety codes are properly dealt with and recorded, 
so communities like Raleigh County, West Virginia can avoid tragedy.
  I would like to thank Rep. Rahall for introducing this piece of 
legislation, and express our Nation's sympathy and support for the 
fallen miners, their families and their community.

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