[Congressional Record Volume 158, Number 47 (Wednesday, March 21, 2012)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E408]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




      RECOGNIZING THE VICTIMS AND TRAGEDY CAUSED BY RECENT STORMS

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                        HON. TIMOTHY V. JOHNSON

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, March 21, 2012

  Mr. JOHNSON of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in solemn 
recognition of a tragedy that took place in my home State of Illinois 
and throughout the Midwest last week. On February 29th, storms ravaged 
homes and businesses leaving 39 people dead due to the severe weather 
that swept through the middle of the country.
  I offer my condolences to the families who have lost loved ones in 
this tragedy. I know that my words offer little in the way of comfort, 
but I must offer them, for the families that have been affected are in 
my thoughts and prayers. The lives taken in these recent events are 
truly a misfortune to behold. I mourn the lives lost and feel heartfelt 
sorrow for the families that have been denied future time with their 
loved ones. I ask my countrymen for their assistance to help alleviate 
the anguish of the victims of this disaster, either through 
volunteering or by being there for your neighbor in their time of need.
  While it is difficult to find positives amidst such a catastrophe, 
upon further examination, admiration and honor should be recognized. As 
we can see across the country, there are stories of courage, 
generosity, selflessness, and kindness. These acts deserve our praise. 
At this moment, there are people volunteering to help rebuild 
communities that have been damaged and destroyed. Such communities are 
a representation of a cause greater than one's self. By helping to 
rebuild a neighborhood people are demonstrating their belief in an 
altruistic form of living. I offer my admiration to the volunteers' 
courage and sacrifices made in the face of extreme adversity. I thank 
the Red Cross, the Salvation Army, Team Rubicon, and other 
organizations for their efforts during this crisis. Their support has 
proven to me that these storms may destroy homes, level businesses, and 
take valuable lives in the process, but they cannot destroy the human 
spirit. One person's willpower is stronger than wooden buildings, brick 
foundations, and steel structures. During times of great hardship, 
Americans have routinely made a determined effort to move forward. So, 
to all those that have been affected by this tragedy: victims, 
rescuers, and volunteers alike, may God bless you all.

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