[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 85 (Tuesday, May 20, 2025)]
[House]
[Page H2154]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




             THANKING EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES PERSONNEL

  (Mr. Patronis of Florida was recognized to address the House for 5 
minutes.)
  Mr. PATRONIS. Mr. Speaker, in honor of National EMS Week, I rise 
today to thank the great men and women of the emergency medical 
services.
  As the former CFO and State fire marshal for the State of Florida, I 
saw these men and women firsthand in action during major events, such 
as during the aftermath of Hurricanes Michael, Ian, Idalia, Helene, and 
Milton, and, of course, the tragic building collapse of Champlain 
Towers in Surfside.
  The mental and physical fortitude that these heroes display daily is 
inspiring. It is a testament to who they are as individuals.
  The theme for National EMS Week is ``We Care for Everyone.''
  God chooses special angels among us to serve, to heal, and to care 
for those who are sick or injured.

                              {time}  1100

  They rush into danger at a moment's notice without hesitation, giving 
hope to those who need it the most.
  These heroes work 24/7 365 days a year, missing holidays, birthdays, 
and other special occasions to ensure our communities are safe.
  On behalf of a grateful nation and myself, I thank EMS workers. I 
thank these Americans in the EMS field for all that they do.
  As long as I have a voice in Washington, D.C., I will always support 
our EMS professionals and every first responder working to serve our 
local communities, the State of Florida, and our great country.


                     Recognition of Judge Remington

  Mr. PATRONIS. Mr. Speaker, I end on a solemn note as we honor the 
life of Honorable Circuit Judge Tom Remington, who passed away on May 
7, 2025, in Pensacola, Florida.
  Tom dedicated over 60 years of his life serving our Nation and our 
State, first as an artillery and infantry officer in Vietnam, where he 
earned the Combat Infantryman Badge, two Purple Hearts, two Bronze 
Stars with Valor, and the Silver Star. His service was featured on the 
History Channel and in books like ``Hill 875'' and ``Dak To.''
  After his military service, Tom graduated from Florida State 
University College of Law, joined the Florida bar in 1971, and gained 
courtroom experience as both a public defender and as assistant State's 
attorney.
  In 1995, he became a partner in the renowned law firm of Smith, 
Anchors, and Remington, serving as general counsel to longtime Okaloosa 
County Sheriff Larry Gilbert.
  Tom was appointed to the circuit court by Governor Lawton Chiles and 
served over 20 years in Okaloosa and Walton Counties. He held numerous 
leadership roles, including chief judge and officer in various legal 
organizations. Known for his humble and principled approach to justice, 
Tom was deeply respected and affectionately called ``T.R.''
  Mr. Speaker, on behalf of northwest Florida, my wife, Katie, and I 
offer condolences to his wife, Dinah; the Smith Remington firm; and 
children, Scott, Mary, and Sara.
  I urge all in Florida's District One to join us in honoring Judge 
Remington's remarkable commitment to service.

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