Recognizing and Honoring Firefighters, Police, Public Servants, Civilians, and Private Businesses Who Responded to Devastating Fire in Richmond, VA...

RECOGNIZING AND HONORING FIREFIGHTERS, POLICE, PUBLIC SERVANTS, CIVILIANS, AND PRIVATE BUSINESSES WHO RESPONDED TO DEVASTATING FIRE IN RICHMOND, VIRGINIA, ON MARCH 26, 2004 -- (Extensions of Remarks - June 08, 2004)

SPEECH OF
HON. ROBERT C. SCOTT
OF VIRGINIA
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Tuesday, June 1, 2004

Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. I rise today in support of H. Res. 612, introduced by my colleague from Virginia, Mr.
CANTOR.

On March 26, 2004, there were a series of devastating fires in Richmond, Virginia. The first fire began shortly after 12:30, and spread quickly. Wind gusting to nearly 20 mph blew burning debris onto other buildings.

The fires resulted in the destruction of numerous buildings and property, and spread through city blocks and a section of the Virginia Commonwealth University campus. A total of 29 buildings suffered damage, with 19 being condemned by either water or structural damage. Yet, the destruction and damage could certainly have been worse. It was only through the combined efforts of the firefighters who responded to the scene that the fire was contained as quickly as it was. Local firefighters who initially answered the call were later assisted by firefighters from fire stations throughout the region. There were about 200 firefighters on the scene, along with 50 pieces of equipment. Together, they worked to defeat the blaze-and fought the challenging wind, smoke and heat conditions in order to save the remaining area.
We thank them today for their heroic efforts to contain the damage and to protect human lives.

It is appropriate for us to also recognize the efforts of the police on March 26th. As always, they were instrumental in keeping our citizens safe. For example, they evacuated several buildings and about 50 nearby homes, going door to door.

And last, today, we recognize the countless private citizens, volunteers and organizations that-along with the firefighters, police, and public servants-worked as a seamless team preserving and protecting human lives, defending
property, and providing food and comfort to all affected.

All of these individuals deserve our recognition, and our gratitude. They met their community's call to duty by providing brave and steadfast assistance and upholding the finest traditions of the Commonwealth of Virginia. We, and all Americans, thank you for your supreme efforts.