[Congressional Record Volume 167, Number 189 (Wednesday, October 27, 2021)]
[Senate]
[Page S7415]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      TRIBUTE TO DANIEL HUTCHINSON

 Mr. DAINES. Mr. President, today I have the distinct honor of 
recognizing Daniel Hutchinson of Roosevelt County as Montanan of the 
Month for his acts of heroism and leadership following the tragic 
Amtrak derailment that occurred in Joplin, MT, last month.
  Daniel and his son Joshua were two of the 141 passengers on board the 
Empire Builder train headed to Seattle on September 25, 2021. That 
afternoon, tragedy struck. The train derailed in rural Montana between 
Joplin and Chester. After the crash, Daniel didn't hesitate to jump 
into action and help fellow passengers aboard the train.
  His years of military training prepared him to act swiftly and 
selflessly to identify injured passengers and help others off the 
train. Daniel immediately took control of the situation, making his way 
through the train and calling out to locate trapped or injured 
passengers.
  After the accident, Daniel stated that he said a prayer thanking the 
Lord for putting him in the right place at the right time. He did 
everything he could to get others out of harm's way, and I believe the 
passengers Daniel helped are also saying a prayer of thanks for his 
heroic actions.
  His kindness and leadership extend far beyond that fateful day. 
Daniel's son, Joshua, describes him as a good neighbor, an avid 
outdoorsman, and an advocate for veterans. Joshua says his dad is a 
true Montanan in every sense of the word, and I couldn't agree more.
  It is my honor to recognize Daniel for his quick and decisive actions 
on the day of that horrific accident and for his everyday acts of 
service that make Montana a better place.

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