Sam Gibbons: “today we come to the floor of this body not as Democrats, not as Republicans, but as Americans, united in an effort to…”

“today we come to the floor of this body not as Democrats, not as Republicans, but as Americans, united in an effort to find a solution to find help for the people affected by the wrath of Hurricane Katrina. Today, Mr. Speaker, we unanimously passed financial assistance to the victims of Hurricane Katrina and this Nation stands united. This entire Nation stands ready and willing to help the many thousands of victims in Hurricane Katrina's wrath. But first, let me extend my deepest sympathies to those who have lost loved ones in the rising flood waters and the devastation of this storm. We all share the grief they are feeling during this tragic time. Our most immediate concern is the safety and security of the people of Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama who are fighting this very day, this very hour, this very moment to survive. Many Nevadans have stepped up to offer their help in this effort. We have contractors in Nevada who have donated construction material, concrete, steel to help rebuild. We have banking institutions like Wells Fargo that have offered emergency financial assistance, emergency financial support and processes by which these people can access financial assistance. Members of the National Guard in the State of Nevada have also been called up, both from the 152nd Air National Guard Medical Group based in Reno and the Army Guard's Medical Detachment 5 headquartered in Reno.…”