TRIBUTE TO HEATH GUNNS

On 2026-09-24, Senator James E. Risch (R-ID) delivered a floor speech titled "TRIBUTE TO HEATH GUNNS" in the Senate.

TRIBUTE TO HEATH GUNNS

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 152 (Thursday, September 24, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 152 (Thursday, September 24, 2026)] [Senate] [Page S4983] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] TRIBUTE TO HEATH GUNNS Mr. RISCH. Madam President, the Gem State is made strong by the hard-working, dedicated, and selfless actions of Idahoans. Across our State, hundreds of thousands of veterans, first responders, volunteers, and public servants go above and beyond for the communities they call home. These people are pillars of our State and are essential to keeping Idaho the best place to live, work, and raise a family. Through my Idaho Service Spotlight, I recognize these exceptional Idahoans whose service and leadership have made a lasting impact on the Gem State. Today, I am pleased to recognize Heath Gunns as an Idaho Service Spotlight recipient for the month of September 2026. Heath Gunns understands the sacrifice and mental weight of service. A Marine veteran and former police officer, Heath found peace from the stress of a life dedicated to protecting others in the outdoor landscapes of North Idaho. For Heath, the beautiful rivers, lakes, and lands that make Idaho special are a safe haven and a place where he can serve his community once again. In 2023, Heath started Spoken Outdoors to provide first responders and veterans space to reconnect with nature and reflect. Under his leadership, the nonprofit has hosted guided river tours, fishing excursions, and recreational events across the country for those who have spent their careers in public safety. Heath knows firsthand the lasting effects of serving our country and believes each and every one of our first responders and veterans deserves not only our gratitude, but also opportunities to heal. Since 2024, Spoken Outdoors has supported more than 500 first responders, veterans, and servicemembers as they work to recenter after traumatic events during their service. Heath's work has made a meaningful difference for Idaho's first responders. Following the tragic Canfield Mountain incident in 2025, Spoken Outdoors hosted the Shield and Flame event, providing those involved in the rescue efforts with a day of wellness and support on the Kootenai River. Spoken Outdoors also organized river trips on the Kootenai and Grand Ronde Rivers, giving 80 first responders an opportunity to gather and spend a day fishing. Heath finds Spoken Outdoors helps not only first responders, but the broader community as well. Each event offers first responders with the chance to create meaningful relationships and better navigate their experiences, helping them recognize they are not alone in their struggles. In turn, their families and communities benefit from more resilient first responders with renewed hearts of service. On behalf of the people of Idaho, I thank and congratulate Heath for being selected as an Idaho Service Spotlight recipient for the month of September 2026. You reflect the very best of our state and Idaho is stronger because of your actions. ____________________