On the recordJune 6, 2016
Madam President, anybody who has been watching the national news--and particularly the weather--knows we have been having some serious flooding back home in Texas. Tragically, we lost nine soldiers from Fort Hood in a very unfortunate drowning incident as part of that flooding. These soldiers were in the midst of a training mission when their vehicle got stuck in a flooded creek. I know I speak for a lot of people when I say my prayers and condolences are with the Fort Hood family and the families of these lost soldiers. I know from experience that the Fort Hood community is a resilient one and, unfortunately, has seen more than its fair share of tragedy in recent years. But I also know the community there in Killeen, along with the entire State and Nation, will continue to offer support for our men and women in uniform, and particularly for those who have lost loved ones and those who are recovering in the days ahead. Amidst the sad news, I have been continually thankful for the hard work and dedication of our first responders, who have devoted their lives to saving others. It is at times like these, when they rise to the occasion, that I am particularly grateful for their service. As you might expect, my staff and I are in close contact with local officials across the State of Texas in the more than 30 counties where Governor Abbott has declared a disaster.…
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