Congratulating Peter Matthiessen

Floor Speech

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Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commend Captain Peter Matthiessen, a dedicated 13-year veteran firefighter serving the city of Roanoke. Captain Matthiessen's exceptional service has earned him the esteemed Veterans of Foreign Wars National Firefighter of the Year Award.

Nominated by the local VFW Post 1264, Captain Matthiessen's leadership in organizing the annual Roanoke 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb has been instrumental. Working alongside First Lieutenant Stephen Curry, Captain Robert Reid, and retired Battalion Chief Matt Dewhirst, this team has brought a cherished tradition to the Roanoke Valley. For a decade now, the event has drawn around 300 participants and raises $25,000 for the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation annually.

The 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb challenges participants to climb the equivalent of 110 stories of the World Trade Center, thus honoring the 343 firefighters who made the ultimate sacrifice on September 11, 2001.

I congratulate Captain Matthiessen's humble dedication to this mission and his continued service to his community as well as all those who participate year after year in the 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb. May we never forget.

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