[Congressional Record Volume 161, Number 180 (Friday, December 11, 2015)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1779]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       CREW OF THE M.S. SHAHAN II

                                  _____
                                 

                           HON. LEE M. ZELDIN

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                       Friday, December 11, 2015

  Mr. ZELDIN. Mr. Speaker, I, along with my colleague Mr. Courtney from 
Connecticut, rise today to honor the crew of the M.S. Shahan II. On 
September 14, 2015, a seemingly normal work commute turned into a life 
or death rescue mission. Al Yeomans, Ship's Mate; Cliff McGuigan, 
Ship's Mate; Jeffrey Krause, Security; Meghan Jackson, Environmental 
Safety and Occupational Health Specialist; Allyson Cooke, Document 
Control Specialist; Jennifer Knight, Administrative Assistant; and 
Hector Lavarreda, Procurement Manager, all a part of the workforce at 
the Plum Island Animal Disease Center, sprang into action after 
spotting two boaters off the coast of Old Saybrook, Connecticut.
  Upon arriving at the scene, the crew saw the boaters clinging to the 
fender of their sinking vessel and not wearing life jackets, which 
meant that a timely rescue was critical. Despite the rough conditions, 
Captain Peter Jordan managed to maneuver the ferry into position to 
deploy a rescue sling and hoist the boaters to safety. Once aboard, the 
crew rushed to protect the victims from hypothermia and shock.
  If not for the courageous efforts of the crew members, the story 
being told may have ended tragically. The actions undertaken by these 
crew members embody the spirit of American determination and the desire 
to help others when they need it most. It is important to recognize 
these individuals so that their selfless actions do not go unnoticed 
and can be commended by all. Today, we thank these crewmembers for 
their efforts and service to their communities.

                          ____________________