HONORING THE LIFE OF NATHAN MATTHEWS

On 2026-08-17, Representative Jeff Hurd (R-CO-3) delivered a floor speech titled "HONORING THE LIFE OF NATHAN MATTHEWS" in the House.

HONORING THE LIFE OF NATHAN MATTHEWS

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 133 (Monday, August 17, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 133 (Monday, August 17, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E789] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING THE LIFE OF NATHAN MATTHEWS ______ HON. JEFF HURD of colorado in the house of representatives Monday, August 17, 2026 Mr. HURD of Colorado. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Nathan Matthews, a wildland firefighter who gave his life protecting western Colorado. Nate was serving with the Rifle Helitack crew on June 28, 2026, when the Knowles Fire suddenly overtook his team during initial attack operations in Mesa County. Three of his fellow firefighters--Emily Barker, Nick Hutcherson, and Sydney Watson--were killed that day. Nate survived the burnover and fought for nearly a month, but on July 25, 2026, he succumbed to his injuries. He was 43 years old. Wildland firefighters go toward danger when everyone else is trying to get away. Nate did that for people he had never met, in a community far from his own. His courage, and the courage of those who served beside him, deserves our lasting gratitude. May God bless Nate's family, his crew, and all who mourn him. ____________________