    [Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 39 (Thursday, February 27, 2025)]
    [Senate]
    [Page S1426]
    From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]

                             TRIBUTE TO RICK BARNES

     Mr. SCHMITT. Mr. President. I rise today to honor Rick Barnes
    of Doolittle, MO, for his service to his neighbors and the State by a
    simple act of kindness.
      On March 8, 2024, Stella Typaldos and her two young children were on
    the way to St. Louis to attend a family gathering. As Stella was
    driving eastbound on I-44, near Fort Leonard Wood, she hit a massive
    pothole that popped her tire and left her and her children stranded.
    Rick Barnes, a firefighter with the Doolittle Rural Fire Protection
    District, was driving west on I-44 when he saw Stella's car stranded on
    the other side of the highway. Barnes didn't hesitate to turn around
    and stop to help her. He drove Stella and her children to a nearby auto
    shop to purchase a new tire and help install it. Barnes began his
    firefighting career 7 years ago when he was 60 years old, and his
    desire to help his fellow Missourians when they are in need is
    inspirational.
      Rick Barnes is truly a Champion of Missouri. He went above and beyond
    to support his fellow Missourians, and I am grateful for his commitment
    to helping our community. I wish him the best as he continues to serve
    at the Doolittle Rural Fire Protection District.

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