[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E705-E706]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




CELEBRATING THE EXTRAORDINARY HEROISM OF TIMBERLINE LODGE EMPLOYEES AND 
                            FIRST RESPONDERS

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. EARL BLUMENAUER

                               of oregon

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, July 9, 2024

  Mr. BLUMENAUER. Mr. Speaker, I rise to celebrate the extraordinary 
heroism displayed by Timberline Lodge employees and first responders 
from Hoodland Fire, Clackamas Fire, Estacada Fire, Portland Fire, 
Gresham Fire and the United States Forest Service.
  In the middle of the night on April 18, 2024, a fire was detected in 
the attic of the historic Timberline Lodge on Oregon's iconic Mount 
Hood. Lodge staff jumped into action with fire extinguishers and safely 
evacuated guests who were staying at the Lodge, many of whom were 
roused from their sleep to be escorted out. Fire crews from around the 
mountain arrived in record time to battle the blaze and protect 
Timberline Lodge, a national historic treasure.
  Constructed in 1937, Timberline Lodge stands on the south slope of 
Mount Hood at an elevation of 6,000 feet. Iconic and awe-inspiring in 
its architecture and design, it is a tribute to the rugged spirit of 
the Pacific Northwest. The Lodge was declared a National Historic 
Landmark in 1977 and is one of Oregon's most popular tourist 
attractions, drawing nearly two million visitors every year.
  The quick thinking, bravery, and exemplary effort by both staff and 
first responders ensured that fire damage was limited to the attic and 
that all the guests made it out safely with no injuries reported. To 
think, we could've lost this national treasure if it wasn't for the 
courageous actions of a few brave souls. I am forever grateful for 
their response.

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