H.R. No. 1724
R E S O L U T I O N
WHEREAS, During the month of March 2017, the Texas Panhandle
suffered multiple, massive wildfires, and Kory McLaughlin of the
Mobeetie Volunteer Fire Department was part of a coalition of first
responders who fought heroically and tenaciously to save the lives
and property of Texans in the region; and
WHEREAS, Fueled by dry vegetation, high winds, and
unseasonably hot weather, the fast-moving wildfires broke out on
March 6 and raged for days, destroying around 500,000 acres of Texas
prairie land and resulting in the death of four people; the fires
were some of the largest in state history and led to Governor Greg
Abbott's declaring a state of emergency in six counties; and
WHEREAS, The combined efforts of fire personnel from around
and beyond the region, including members of local volunteer fire
departments, were needed to contain the blazes; working exhausting
hours in perilous conditions, these dedicated individuals risked
their lives to halt the fires' rampage and rescue residents, and
their contributions were vital to averting further tragedy and
destruction; and
WHEREAS, In answering the call of duty during this
catastrophic crisis, Kory McLaughlin demonstrated an extraordinary
commitment to protecting the safety of his fellow citizens, and he
has earned the enduring gratitude and admiration of Texans across
the state; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 85th Texas
Legislature hereby commend Kory McLaughlin of the Mobeetie
Volunteer Fire Department for his bravery, skill, and dedication in
fighting the Texas Panhandle wildfires of March 2017 and extend to
him sincere best wishes for the future; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be
prepared for Mr. McLaughlin as an expression of high regard by the
Texas House of Representatives.
Springer
______________________________
Speaker of the House
I certify that H.R. No. 1724 was adopted by the House on May
4, 2017, by a non-record vote.
______________________________
Chief Clerk of the House