[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 145 (1999), Part 16]
[House]
[Page 22426]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




                 REMEMBERING FIREFIGHTER STEPHEN MASTO

  (Mrs. CAPPS asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 
minute and to revise and extend her remarks.)
  Mrs. CAPPS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today with a heavy heart to honor the 
service and pay tribute to Stephen Joseph Masto. Stephen died in late 
August while helping to battle a wildfire in Los Padres National Forest 
in my district.
  At the young age of 28, Stephen had already devoted his career to 
public safety. He spent his career fighting fires all over Southern 
California and the central coast. We can never repay Stephen or his 
family for his dedication, hard work, and ultimate sacrifice. Rather, 
we must honor him by being especially mindful of the brave men and 
women firefighters he has left behind.
  These individuals have committed themselves to protecting the lives 
and safety of their neighbors in times of need. Like Stephen, they are 
true heroes in every sense of the word.
  I know that I speak for my entire community when I extend my most 
heartfelt condolences to Stephen's families and loved ones who will 
miss him so terribly. We honor him when we honor the people he has left 
behind.

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