[Congressional Record Volume 157, Number 26 (Thursday, February 17, 2011)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E256-E257]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  HONORING THE HEROICS OF DAVID BENKE

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. MIKE COFFMAN

                              of colorado

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, February 17, 2011

  Mr. COFFMAN of Colorado. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor an 
American hero, Mr. David Benke, an ordinary man who through 
extraordinary courage saved the lives of an innumerable number of 
children. His valor, daring, and selflessness are a compelling reminder 
of the strength and virtue of the American spirit.
  It was a chilly afternoon on February 23, 2010, when Mr. Benke's 
mettle was tested. He heard nearby gunshots on the grounds of the 
Littleton school where he teaches. 60 feet away a 32-year-old man was 
taking shots with a hunting rifle at a group of students. Heedless of 
the danger to himself, Mr. Benke tore towards the assailant and in an 
instant had wrestled him to the pavement and the rifle from his grasp. 
Two students had been wounded, but countless others were saved by his 
heroic efforts.
  In recognition and in honor of this selfless act, the Carnegie Hero 
Fund Commission has awarded him the Carnegie Medal, a high honor 
``given to those who risk their lives to an extraordinary degree while 
saving or attempting to save the lives of others.'' Today, I too

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would like to recognize Mr. Benke's valor and selflessness and do honor 
to one of Colorado's most distinguished heroes. I am extremely proud to 
have David as a constituent and know that his bravery and courage will 
shine as a beacon of magnanimity that others will aspire to.

                          ____________________