[Congressional Record Volume 163, Number 207 (Tuesday, December 19, 2017)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1724-E1725]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 HONORING FIREFIGHTER AND PARAMEDIC JAMES McDONALD FOR HIS COURAGE AND 
                             HEROIC ACTIONS

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. RAUL RUIZ

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, December 19, 2017

  Mr. RUIZ. Mr. Speaker, I would like to commend the heroic actions of 
firefighter and paramedic James McDonald. His courage, calm demeanor, 
quick reflexes, and solution-based approach saved the life of Riverside 
County Sheriff's Deputy David Solis.
  On the afternoon of May 25th, 2017, Mr. McDonald and the rest of the 
members of Fire Station 79 were dispatched across town to assist Deputy 
Solis who had been shot multiple times during a foot pursuit in the 
City of Coachella.
  Mr. McDonald reacted immediately and medically assisted Deputy Solis. 
He assessed the injuries, directed the medical support, and requested 
an air ambulance to transport Deputy Solis to the nearest regional 
trauma center.

[[Page E1725]]

  As an emergency room physician, I am aware that when an individual is 
severely injured by gunshots, every second is vital to save his or her 
life. Mr. McDonald remained calmed and focused throughout the 
operation, and his leadership was essential in saving Deputy Solis's 
life. His courage and agility of mind is commendable.
  Throughout his two years working with the Riverside County Fire 
Department, Mr. McDonald has demonstrated a strong commitment to public 
safety, earning the respect and admiration of his colleagues. Before 
becoming a firefighter, Mr. McDonald served our community as a 
paramedic since 2000. Mr. McDonald was recently recognized by the City 
of Coachella for his outstanding performance assisting Deputy Solis.
  On behalf of California's 36th Congressional District, I am grateful 
for Firefighter and Paramedic James McDonald and commend his valuable 
contributions and arduous work strengthening our community.

                          ____________________