Providing for Consideration of H.R. 538, Native American Energy Act, And Providing for Consideration of H.R. 702, Adaptation to Changing Crude Oil Markets

Floor Speech

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MOMENT OF SILENCE FOR THE VICTIMS OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA FLOOD

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, fellow Members of Congress, the people of South Carolina have faced an unprecedented, catastrophic weather event, also known as a 1,000-year rain, exceeding 20 inches virtually overnight, causing flooding and widespread damage. We are grateful for your thoughts and prayers.

The flooding and rain destroyed homes and roads, collapsed bridges, and broke dams across the State; 400 roads and bridges are still closed. Tragically, to date, the flooding has claimed the lives of nearly 20 citizens across the Carolinas. We ask for your thoughts and prayers for their families.

We are grateful for the strength of the people of South Carolina, led by Governor Nikki Haley and Adjutant General Bob Livingston.

We are inspired by people like Aaron and Amy Dupree, with their four small children, who were rescued by boat from their home in Columbia's Lake Katherine community by their neighbor, Brian Boyer.

You will hear stories of incredible acts of volunteerism, like Kassy Alia, the widow of Forest Acres Police Officer Greg Alia who was murdered last week, leaving her and their 5-month-old son, Sal. Despite her grief, she joined others in distributing food to those in need.

Wherever you go, you will find heroes like these and hear about the service of the first responders, emergency personnel, officials, and State employees who have worked tirelessly to aid our community.

We appreciate that Homeland Security Secretary Jeh Johnson will lead a fact-finding delegation with members of our delegation to our State tomorrow.

I yield to the gentleman from South Carolina (Mr. Clyburn). If he is not available, I just want to thank him for his service. We look forward to being on the delegation with him tomorrow.

God bless South Carolina, and I ask my colleagues to stand and join me in a moment of silence.

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