[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 148 (2002), Part 4]
[Senate]
[Page 5096]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




                         TRIBUTE TO PAUL GAGNE

 Mr. SMITH of New Hampshire. Mr. President, today I show my 
support for Paul Gagne of New Hampshire. His heroic actions, combined 
with help from Jeffrey Morse, saved a woman and numerous animals. He 
put his life on the line to rescue others from a burning house.
  In September of 2001, the two telephone technicians were working on a 
cable problem when they noticed smoke coming from a nearby house. They 
raced to the scene of the fire. Paul hurried to call the emergency 
rescue services, while Jeffrey used a garden hose to prevent the flames 
from spreading. Jeffrey then noticed a sign indicating that live 
animals were living in the house, so he kicked down the door to the 
building and retrieved a cat.
  After the animal was brought to safety, the two men heard screams. 
Paul and Jeffrey entered the burning building and worked their way 
through the thick smoke to find a choking woman. The two men picked her 
up and carried her to safety. They returned for a final trip to ensure 
everyone had been rescued.
  I commend the acts of Paul Gagne. It takes true courage and honor to 
put somebody else's life above one's own. I am confident that as long 
as we have people like Paul, our Nation will continue to be strong. New 
Hampshire is proud to have such a dedicated citizen. It is an honor to 
represent Paul Gagne in the U.S. Senate.

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