[Congressional Record Volume 159, Number 58 (Thursday, April 25, 2013)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E553]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        A TRIBUTE TO ED JOHNSON

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                            HON. TOM LATHAM

                                of iowa

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, April 25, 2013

  Mr. LATHAM. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate and recognize 
Ed Johnson for being named a 2013 Hero of the Heartland by the American 
Red Cross serving Greater Iowa.
   Each year, the American Red Cross serving Greater Iowa recognizes 
Heroes of the Heartland by selecting everyday Iowans who have done 
extraordinary things to help their neighbors and communities. The 
Iowans honored with this prestigious award displayed selflessness in a 
variety of courageous, charitable and thoughtful acts. The Heroes of 
the Heartland program not only showcases the heroes among us, but also 
helps raise crucial funds to ensure that the American Red Cross is 
prepared and equipped to assist those that need food, shelter, and 
comfort during emergencies and difficult times.
   As principal of Whittier Elementary School in Indianola, Ed Johnson 
works to improve children's lives every day. But to fifth grader Logan 
Major, Principal Johnson is truly a lifesaver. During a typical lunch 
period, Logan was eating a carrot that, without warning, obstructed his 
air supply. Upon seeing this student in distress, Ed wasted no time 
successfully performing the Heimlich maneuver to avert the life-
threatening situation. While Principal Johnson may just see his actions 
as part of another day on the job, his quick thinking and professional 
response left an entire community grateful for his commitment to 
schoolchildren and their safety. Principal Johnson is an example of 
leadership that our state can be proud of.
   Mr. Speaker, Mr. Johnson's actions that earned him the title a 
``Hero of the Heartland'' are a testament to the humble, hardworking 
and helpful people who make up the great state of Iowa. I invite my 
colleagues in the House to join me in congratulating Ed on a job well 
done, thanking the American Red Cross serving Greater Iowa for their 
life changing efforts, and wishing all of those involved in the Heroes 
of the Heartland program continued success for years to come.

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