HRES 787
Whereas in the early morning of October 28, 2007, flames broke out at a beach house in Ocean Isle Beach, North Carolina;
Whereas the fire spread quickly and took the lives of seven college students, six attended the University of South Carolina and one went to Clemson University: Lauren Mahon of Simpsonville, South Carolina; Allison Walden of Chagrin Falls, Ohio; Travis Cale, Justin Anderson and Emily Yelton of Greenville, South Carolina; William Rhea of Florence, South Carolina, and Cassidy Pendley of Chapin, South Carolina;
Whereas 6 University of South Carolina students were injured while escaping the flames and were treated at Brunswick Community Hospital;
Whereas local community members rushed to alert and assist emergency personnel to support the students and their families in the aftermath of the tragedy;
Whereas firefighters, paramedics, police officers, and other emergency personnel from the surrounding communities responded quickly and worked bravely to rescue the injured and extinguish the fire;
Whereas the State of North Carolina and local government officials responded to the fire and its aftermath quickly, effectively, and compassionately;
Whereas the immediate outpouring of support, assistance and compassion from the Nation and South Carolinians is greatly appreciated; and
Whereas the students, faculty, staff, and officials at Clemson University and University of South Carolina have come together as a university community to remember the fallen students and provide strength and support to its respective campuses through this difficult time: Now, therefore, be it
Resolved, That the House of Representatives--
(1) expresses its deepest condolences to the families and friends of Lauren Mahon, Allison Walden, Travis Cale, Justin Anderson, Emily Yelton, William Rhea, and Cassidy Pendley; and offers its hope for the quick and full recovery of those students who were injured in the fire;
(2) expresses immense gratitude for the efforts of countless emergency response personnel, local, State, and Federal officials, health care providers, volunteers, and citizens who have been part of the response; and
(3) expresses its support for all of the students, faculty, administration, and staff at the University of South Carolina and Clemson University as they heal from this tragedy.
Attest:
Clerk.





