[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 70 (Monday, April 28, 2025)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E342]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




RECOGNIZING THE HEROISM OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA FIRE AND EMERGENCY 
                      MEDICAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT

                                 ______
                                 

                       HON. BRIAN K. FITZPATRICK

                            of pennsylvania

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, April 28, 2025

  Mr. FITZPATRICK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor the 
courageous divers and first responders of the District of Columbia Fire 
and Emergency Medical Services Department, whose swift and selfless 
actions in the aftermath of the devastating collision between American 
Airlines Flight 5342 and a United States Army Blackhawk Helicopter over 
the Potomac River showed heroism in the face of tragedy.
  When the unthinkable happened on that cold January evening, it was 
the brave men and women of D.C. Fire and EMS who rushed to the scene. 
Without regard for their own safety, these highly trained professionals 
entered dangerous, frigid conditions, diving into the depths of the 
Potomac to conduct a search and rescue, and bring comfort to the 
families and civilians anxiously watching and waiting onshore.
  In the face of disaster, the efforts of the D.C. Fire and EMS divers 
were nothing short of heroic. Their steadfast presence and commitment 
to vigorously search amidst the confusion and chaos was a source of 
strength to a city, region, and Nation in mourning.
  The divers of D.C. Fire and EMS showed us the very best of public 
service. Their leadership, courage, and compassion make us proud. They 
upheld their duty with unwavering courage and commitment.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask that this body join me in extending our deepest 
gratitude to these first responders. Let the record show our respect, 
our appreciation, and our enduring thanks to the divers of D.C. Fire 
and EMS. May their service continue to be an example for future 
generations of public servants to follow.

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