Bill Flores: “The city of West, Texas, is a small, tight- knit community located a few miles north of Waco, Texas, with a population…”

“The city of West, Texas, is a small, tight- knit community located a few miles north of Waco, Texas, with a population of just under 3,000. West is commonly known for its Czech bakeries, Czech gift shops and antique stores, and it has been recognized as the ``Czech Heritage Capital of Texas.'' On April 17, the city of West was subject to a catastrophic explosion that was felt hundreds of miles away. The tragic explosion injured hundreds, caused tens of millions of dollars in damage, and took 15 lives. On the evening of the explosion, first responders from West and surrounding communities responded to a fire at the West Fertilizer Company. These brave men worked to try and tame the flames and evacuate a nearby apartment complex and nursing home when the explosion erupted and rocked this small community. When the smoke cleared and the rescue mission was complete, we learned we had lost 12 first responders. These brave men died while doing the job that they were trained and prepared to do in order to keep our community safe. Today, we honor and remember these fallen first responders who put themselves in harm's way for the good of their family, their friends, their neighbors, and their community. Mr. Speaker, today we remember Morris Wayne Bridges, Jr., of West, Texas. He was born February 28, 1972, in Dallas, Texas, to Morris and Sharon Bridges. He attended schools in Dallas and later became a pipefitter for Action Fire Pro in Waxahachie, Texas.…”