Statement of Senator Patrick Leahy

On The Death Of Dale R. Long

Of The Bennington Rescue Squad

Tuesday, June 16, 2009

 

Marcelle and I were deeply saddened by the news of this tragic accident that claimed the life of veteran EMT specialist Dale R. Long.  We extend our deepest condolences to his family, to the Bennington Rescue Squad and to the entire Vermont EMT community.

 

As a Vermonter I have always thought that members of our first-responder community represent the best of our state’s tradition of service to others.  Dale Long was a solid example of that tradition.  He was Bennington Rescue Squad’s 2008 EMT of the Year, and Vermont’s 2009 recipient of the Star of Life Award.  I met Dale just last month when he visited my office in Washington in conjunction with the Star of Life honor.

 

This tragedy highlights for us the fact that Vermont EMT’s, and all of our first-responders, literally put their lives at risk every day for the people of their communities.  Dale Long had a superb 25-year career as a Vermont EMT, and I encourage all Vermonters to keep his family and colleagues in their thoughts and prayers at this difficult time.

 

# # # # #