[Congressional Record Volume 159, Number 74 (Thursday, May 23, 2013)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E753]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




          RECOGNIZING NATIONAL EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERICES WEEK

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. TOM REED

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, May 23, 2013

  Mr. REED. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize May 19-25 as 
National Emergency Medical Services Week. The goal of this important 
week is to encourage safety and to honor the dedication of those who 
provide day-to-day lifesaving services. Though this honorary title may 
only last a week, the highlighted message should be recognized 
throughout the entire year.
  This year's theme is ``EMS: One Mission. One Team.'' This powerful 
theme serves as a reminder that emergency providers work selflessly 
each and every day to aid those in need whenever the call may be heard. 
Though the titles may differ--paramedics, first responders, 
firefighters--they all strive to improve the communities in which we 
live and work.
  One does not have to look past the recent tragedy in Boston to fully 
understand just how important emergency medical services are in our 
daily lives. The heroes on that dark day were ordinary citizens who 
rose up in the face of tragedy to treat the dozens of wounded runners 
and innocent bystanders.
  It is my hope that everyone takes a moment to thank those around them 
who perform these live-saving services. They are America's true 
everyday heroes.

                          ____________________