[Congressional Record Volume 167, Number 56 (Thursday, March 25, 2021)]
[Senate]
[Page S1810]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         ADDITIONAL STATEMENTS

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           TRIBUTE TO CELEA POITRA AND GAHGE WHITEMANRUNSHIM

 Mr. DAINES. Mr. President, this week, I have the honor of 
recognizing Celea Poitra and Gahge Whitemanrunshim of Big Horn County 
for courageously stepping up to help others in the face of danger. They 
exhibit strong Montana values, and their dedication to helping others 
is admirable.
  Celea and Gahge were in their grandmother's pickup truck heading to a 
dental appointment on Saturday, February 27, 2021, when they witnessed 
devastating 30-vehicle pileup on the Yellowstone River Bridge outside 
Billings, MT. Dozens of vehicles crashed into each other on the icy 
interstate highway bridge. After their truck came to a stop, Celea and 
Gahge saw a vehicle with a mother and two kids hanging partially off 
the guardrail of the bridge. Celea and Gahge did not hesitate to step 
in and help. However, the impact from other vehicles hitting the pile-
up knocked both of them off of the bridge, and they fell to the ground 
about 60 feet below.
  They sustained serious injuries when they fell and are recovering in 
Billings' hospital. Celea was treated for a broken back, lacerated 
kidney, and other injuries. She was in an intensive care unit and is 
expected to need multiple surgeries. Gahge suffered a fractured neck, 
punctured lung, and other injuries. Their grandmother and guardian, 
Joan, stated that it is very much in her children's nature to go out of 
their way to help someone.
  It is my distinct honor to recognize Celea and Gahge for 
demonstrating such bravery to help others in need and I pray for their 
swift recovery. Their selflessness serves as an inspiration to all 
Montanans. 

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