[Congressional Record Volume 165, Number 59 (Thursday, April 4, 2019)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E404]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    RECOGNIZING JUSTIN DOWNS OF MOLT

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                          HON. GREG GIANFORTE

                               of montana

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, April 4, 2019

  Mr. GIANFORTE. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Justin Downs of 
Molt for rescuing a severely injured man amid harsh winter conditions.
   A rancher from northwest of Billings, Justin is a volunteer 
firefighter with the Broadview Fire Department. On a day in early March 
with challenging winter weather, he was called upon to aid a man 
injured in a ranching accident. The man was immobile, and because of 
snow-drifted roads and fields, emergency vehicles were unable to reach 
him.
   As he has done countless times before, Justin responded to the call. 
Using his farm tractor, he and a medic began crossing the fields of 
deep snow about two miles from where conditions had forced emergency 
vehicles to stop.
   Upon arrival, the medic provided initial treatment for the man's 
injuries. Justin and the medic then loaded the man into the cab of 
Justin's tractor. Justin drove through the snow-covered fields to the 
rescue vehicles where he left the man with emergency personnel. He then 
crossed the fields again to get the medic, who had stayed behind 
because of limited space in the tractor's cab.
   ``I know people would help me out if I needed it. We just do what 
needs to be done when it needs to be done,'' Justin said.
   Winters in Montana can be harsh and produce dangerous conditions, 
especially in rural areas where travel can be disrupted for days. It's 
encouraging to know neighbors stand ready to lend a hand in times of 
need.
   Madam Speaker, for his selfless service to his community and for 
coming to the aid of an injured rancher without hesitation and amid 
hostile winter conditions, I recognize Justin Downs for his spirit of 
Montana.

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