Graniteville Train Wreck 10th Anniversary

Floor Speech

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Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, Tuesday marked the 10th
anniversary of the catastrophic train wreck in Graniteville, South
Carolina, which sadly is remembered for the death of nine citizens and
over 250 persons injured.

I appreciate the first responders of Aiken County and the State for
their courageous efforts to help those in need. I commend Steve
Seeling, who has promoted train safety after his son, Chris, died in
the incident. I also appreciate the continued efforts in leadership of
Phil Napier, the GVW volunteer fire chief and now Aiken County Council
member.

This disaster had devastating impacts on Graniteville, including the
closing of a major employer, Avondale Mills. However, new businesses
have emerged, and the expansion of Bridgestone Corporation with the
establishment of MTU America has created nearly 1,500 jobs.

While we are grateful for the new jobs in Graniteville and look
forward to its continued growth, we will never forget those lost in the
railroad tragedy 10 years ago.

In conclusion, God bless our troops, and the President, by his
actions, must never forget September the 11th in the global war on
terrorism. As an American grateful for French heritage, our prayers are
with the people of France fighting terrorism.

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