[Congressional Record Volume 165, Number 194 (Thursday, December 5, 2019)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1542]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  RECOGNIZING ILLINOIS STATE TROOPER TODD HANNEKEN OF ILLINOIS STATE 
                           POLICE DISTRICT 10

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                           HON. JOHN SHIMKUS

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, December 5, 2019

  Mr. SHIMKUS. Madam Speaker, I rise to recognize Illinois State 
Trooper Todd Hanneken for his heroic service on May 8, 2018. On that 
day Trooper Todd Hanneken was on the scene of a previous accident on 
the northbound lane of Interstate 57 when suddenly a semi-truck slammed 
into the last vehicle in line. The vehicle, driven by Andrew Bergan, 
burst into flames as it was thrust forward into the car in front of it. 
When Mr. Bergan's truck came to rest, the cab was engulfed in flames 
and its doors were blocked. As others attempted to keep the fire at 
bay, Trooper Hanneken kicked out the windshield and, with the help of 
two others, pulled Mr. Bergan to safety. The quick response saved Mr. 
Bergan's life.
  In recognition of Trooper Hanneken's actions that day, he was awarded 
the Medal of Honor on October 30, 2019. This honor is awarded to 
Illinois State Police personnel who ``perform a heroic act that by its 
nature results in saving a life, preventing a serious crime or 
apprehending a person who committed a serious crime.'' Since the events 
of May 8, 2018, Trooper Hanneken has called Mr. Bergan several times, 
visited the hospital and met with his parents, while Mr. Bergan was 
present for the awarding of the Medal of Honor.
  Madam Speaker, it is with great pleasure I stand to recognize Trooper 
Todd Hanneken for his heroism. His dedication to duty and to his fellow 
man is an inspiration to us all. I wish him the very best, along with 
all of the survivors of the crash that day.

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