[Congressional Record Volume 166, Number 113 (Thursday, June 18, 2020)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E547]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      RECOGNIZING TROY CHARBONNEAU

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. GREG GIANFORTE

                               of montana

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, June 18, 2020

  Mr. GIANFORTE. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Detective Troy 
Charbonneau of Billings for always being prepared and willing to answer 
the call of duty whether he is in uniform or off duty.
  It was the first weekend of June, and Troy wanted to take advantage 
of the nice weather. He packed his kayak and headed to Lake Elmo with 
his new puppy which was also eager to get outside. With his kayak in 
the water and his pup enjoying the view, Troy was able to relax.
  After a while, Troy noticed a small dot on the lake's horizon. He 
looked closer and realized it was a person about 250 yards from the 
bank. At the shore, people were yelling. The swimmer was struggling, 
his head disappearing underwater. Realizing the severity of the 
situation, Troy immediately steered his kayak toward the boy. Troy was 
able to get the boy alongside his kayak and secure him with a life 
jacket. Using a rope, he towed the boy safely to shore as sounds of 
ambulance and police sirens echoed across the lake.
  A detective with the Yellowstone County Sheriff's Office, Troy says 
being a police officer is a 24/7 job. If you're off duty, he says, you 
still have a responsibility to do what you can to keep everyone safe. 
An investigator of crimes against children and a forensic interviewer, 
Troy is dedicated to the Billings community, and that drive keeps him 
ready at a moment's notice. Troy saved a boy from drowning, because 
he's always observant of everything around him. He's committed his life 
to public service and law enforcement.
  On behalf of a grateful Montana and nation, I thank Troy and all our 
law enforcement officials who serve our communities selflessly, 
honorably, and with full hearts.
  Madam Speaker, for his swift, heroic actions to save a boy's life and 
for being a great example of service for all Montanans, I recognize 
Detective Troy Charbonneau of Billings for his Spirit of Montana.

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