[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 152 (2006), Part 12]
[Senate]
[Pages 16957-16958]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




                   HONORING OFFICER MICHEL O. CONLEY

 Mr. ALLARD. Mr. President, today I wish to honor Officer 
Michel O. Conley, who lost his life in Colorado's Big Thompson Flood of 
1976.
  Thirty years ago, more than 1 foot of rain fell in a matter of hours, 
causing a flash flood in Big Thompson Canyon. One hundred and forty 
four people were killed and over $30 million in property damage 
occurred. We remember those who died in this natural disaster and also 
the survivors who had to rebuild their lives, working as a community to 
start over again. This week, outside of my hometown of Loveland, CO, 
survivors of this tragedy gathered to commemorate the Big Thompson 
Flood. Though I could not be with them, my thoughts and prayers were. I 
speak on the Senate floor today as a tribute to this special event.
  I ask that the following letter, which I wrote for the Memorial 
Service for Officer Michel O. Conley, be printed in the Record.
  The material follows.
                                                     July 31, 2006

Memorial Service for Officer Michel O. Conley; 30th Anniversary of the 
                           Big Thompson Flood

       Dear Ms. Marks and Guests: As we look back thirty years ago 
     today we remember the shock and devastation that took place 
     in the Big Thompson Canyon, and the loss of Officer Michel O. 
     Conley.
       Joan and I arrived just after the crest from the flood had 
     passed through Loveland and were astounded by the 
     destruction. We were devastated by the tragedy which affected 
     our community.
       The loss of Officer Michel Conley of the Estes Park Police 
     Department is part of that tragedy. However, in his acts of 
     service and selflessness he helped to prevent what could have 
     been more losses. He helped to save approximately 60 people 
     before he was lost in flood. His gallantry and bravery are to 
     be commended.
       Joan's and my prayers and thoughts are with you today as 
     you commemorate the Big Thompson Canyon Flood and the life of 
     Officer Conley, and with all whose lives were affected by 
     this tragedy.
           Sincerely,
                                                     Wayne Allard,
                                             U.S. Senator.

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