[Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 147 (Friday, September 20, 2024)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E935]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




           RECOGNIZING THREE HEROES FROM BURTCHVILLE TOWNSHIP

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                          HON. LISA C. McCLAIN

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                       Friday, September 20, 2024

  Mrs. McCLAIN Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor three exceptional 
heroes from Burtchville Township who demonstrated extraordinary courage 
on August 24, 2024.
  Early that afternoon, Rick Onyshkevich noticed smoke rising from his 
neighbor's property on State Road. At first, Mr. Onyshkevich believed 
that the smoke was a result of yardwork--however, as the smoke grew 
thicker, he soon realized that it was coming from the house.
  Immediately, Mr. Onyshkevich alerted 911 and didn't spare any time 
before entering the home and removing the occupant. According to Chief 
Harrington of the Burtchville Township Fire Department, Mr. Onyshkevich 
was able to remove the occupant from the home but was not able to get 
her down the steps to fully exit the house.
  It was at this time that two deputies, Jacob Garza and Doug 
Schneider, arrived at the scene where they proceeded to rescue her. 
Soon after, she was turned over to Burtchville Fire & Rescue and was 
quickly transferred to the hospital.
  Thanks to an extraordinary display of heroism by Mr. Onyshkevich, 
Deputy Garza, Deputy Schneider, and the dispatchers responsible for 
coordinating the response, a life was saved. Our community is indebted 
to every person involved in this rescue.
  Mr. Speaker, the actions of these heroes exemplify the very best of 
our community. Their bravery, quick thinking, and lack of hesitation to 
act in the face of danger is truly commendable. The actions of these 
brave men are a fervent reminder of the impact one can have when they 
put service above self. We should all be inspired by their heroism, and 
I ask all my colleagues to join me in applauding their efforts.

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