THANKING WASHINGTON'S FIREFIGHTERS, NATIONAL GUARD, AND FIRST RESPONDERS

On 2026-09-16, Representative Dan Newhouse (R-WA-4) delivered a floor speech titled "THANKING WASHINGTON'S FIREFIGHTERS, NATIONAL GUARD, AND FIRST RESPONDERS" in the House.

THANKING WASHINGTON'S FIREFIGHTERS, NATIONAL GUARD, AND FIRST RESPONDERS

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 146 (Wednesday, September 16, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 146 (Wednesday, September 16, 2026)] [House] [Pages H5961-H5962] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] THANKING WASHINGTON'S FIREFIGHTERS, NATIONAL GUARD, AND FIRST RESPONDERS (Mr. NEWHOUSE asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.) Mr. NEWHOUSE. Mr. Speaker, I rise to thank the local, State, and Federal firefighters, first responders, and National Guard members for their tireless effort throughout this wildfire season. My district in central Washington has seen over 368,000 acres burned this year alone. These fires have destroyed homes, businesses, and livelihoods, but without the work of the brave men and women in the field, the damage would have been much worse. The swift and decisive responses by our local fire departments and first responders have ensured that thousands [[Page H5962]] of Washingtonians have stayed safe from these dangerous wildfires. Last week, 550 Washington National Guard members returned home after spending 7 weeks responding to wildfires throughout our State. They have more than earned their rest. Mr. Speaker, I thank all those who have helped protect our communities this wildfire season. Their efforts have made a lasting impact on those of us who call central and eastern Washington home. ____________________