Australian Wildfires

Floor Speech

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Ms. ROSEN. Mr. President, I rise in support of S. Res. 527, a resolution I was proud to cosponsor, recognizing the longstanding partnership between the United States and Australia to share critical firefighting resources during times of crisis.

I first want to thank my colleagues, Senator Cardin and Barrasso, for introducing this important legislation recognizing the brave men and women who have not only risked their lives in the United States as first responders, but went above and beyond to help combat the recent bushfires in Australia.

In November 2019, Australia began to experience devastating bushfires that burned over 30,000,000 acres of land. During this time, more than 300 American firefighters mobilized to assist Australian efforts to suppress and contain the bushfire raging throughout the continent. This bipartisan resolution recognizes the efforts and bravery of Australian and American men and women who worked together to help those in danger and also specifically honors the three American firefighters who lost their lives fighting Australia's bushfires on January 23, 2020.

In my home State of Nevada, several firefighters answered the call to assist with bushfire mitigation and suppression efforts. I want to take a moment to recognize them individually: Matthew James Petersen, Justin Cutler, Brian C. Holmes, Ian McQueary, Jacob Keogh, Juan Islas, Kevin Kelly, Joseph L. Miller, Dylan Rader, Timothy P. Roide, and Eric T. Tilden.

Thank you to all of these brave Nevadans for your service and sacrifice.

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