[Congressional Record Volume 162, Number 106 (Friday, July 1, 2016)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1018-E1019]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 IN HONOR OF BRENT OFFENBERGER, LUKE OFFENBERGER, AND CHRIS ATWELL FOR 
           THEIR RESCUE OF THREE NAVY HELICOPTER CREWMEMBERS

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. RICHARD HUDSON

                           of north carolina

                    in the house of representatives

                          Friday, July 1, 2016

  Mr. HUDSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Brent Offenberger, 
Luke Offenberger, and Chris Atwell for their heroic efforts in rescuing 
three U.S. Navy helicopter crew members who crashed into the James 
River during a routine training mission on June 14, 2016. All three men 
should be recognized for their selfless attitude and willingness to 
help those in need.
  Brent Offenberger was fishing with his son, Luke, and father-in-law, 
Chris, when they saw a U.S. Navy MH-60S helicopter flying at low 
altitude near their boat. While it is not uncommon to see helicopters 
in the area, the men noticed the helicopter was having issues as it 
began to hover a mere ten feet above the surface, throwing water into 
the air. Soon after, the propeller hit a metal buoy and shattered into 
pieces. Immediately after the propeller hit

[[Page E1019]]

the buoy, the men sprang into action to lend assistance to the crew.
  Approximately 30 seconds after the helicopter went down, the family 
was at the crash site and began assisting the crew members who were in 
the water. Because of the swift actions of these men, the entire crew 
was pulled to safety without any serious injuries. While the Navy is 
still investigating the incident to find out what went wrong, I am 
thankful these good Samaritans were there to lend a hand. It is an 
honor to celebrate their actions today.
  Mr. Speaker, please join me today in recognizing these fine men for 
exhibiting bravery and fortitude in helping rescue the crew of the 
downed U.S. Navy helicopter.

                          ____________________