Ted Poe: “Last Thursday, a chemical warehouse in my Texas district exploded into a startling inferno. Fiery containers of…”

“Last Thursday, a chemical warehouse in my Texas district exploded into a startling inferno. Fiery containers of chemicals shot into the air like rockets. The smoke and heat were intense. But the Houston Fire Department quickly answered the alarm. Mr. Speaker, over 200 firefighters from 32 fire stations responded to the hellish inferno. Spring Branch Elementary and nearby homes were evacuated. But the smoke and fire were conquered. The school and homes were saved. Not one person was injured. Mr. Speaker, firefighters are a special breed. They risk their lives to save our lives. They restore order from chaos. These firefighters are to be thanked and appreciated. Firefighter courage and dedication to protecting us is part of what makes them a special breed. While others flee in haste of impending danger, the firefighter, with sirens, red lights, horns, red and white trucks, charge into the jaws of heat, smoke, and fire to defeat and conquer danger. Mr. Speaker, Houston firefighters answered the alarm--they always answer the alarm. And that is just the way it is. ____________________”