TRIBUTE TO RICK BARNES

TRIBUTE TO RICK BARNES

Congressional Record, Volume 171 Issue 39 (Thursday, February 27, 2025) [Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 39 (Thursday, February 27, 2025)] [Senate] [Page S1426] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] TRIBUTE TO RICK BARNES Mr. SCHMITT. Mr. President. I rise today to honor Rick Barnes of Doolittle, MO, for his service to his neighbors and the State by a simple act of kindness. On March 8, 2024, Stella Typaldos and her two young children were on the way to St. Louis to attend a family gathering. As Stella was driving eastbound on I-44, near Fort Leonard Wood, she hit a massive pothole that popped her tire and left her and her children stranded. Rick Barnes, a firefighter with the Doolittle Rural Fire Protection District, was driving west on I-44 when he saw Stella's car stranded on the other side of the highway. Barnes didn't hesitate to turn around and stop to help her. He drove Stella and her children to a nearby auto shop to purchase a new tire and help install it. Barnes began his firefighting career 7 years ago when he was 60 years old, and his desire to help his fellow Missourians when they are in need is inspirational. Rick Barnes is truly a Champion of Missouri. He went above and beyond to support his fellow Missourians, and I am grateful for his commitment to helping our community. I wish him the best as he continues to serve at the Doolittle Rural Fire Protection District. ____________________