HONORING 100 YEARS OF THE CRAG RATS

HONORING 100 YEARS OF THE CRAG RATS

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 40 (Tuesday, March 3, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 40 (Tuesday, March 3, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E182] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING 100 YEARS OF THE CRAG RATS ______ HON. MAXINE DEXTER of oregon in the house of representatives Tuesday, March 3, 2026 Ms. DEXTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize a remarkable organization from Hood River, Oregon: Crag Rats. Since 1926, the Crag Rats have answered the call when Oregonians and visitors find themselves in danger on our mountains and in our gorges. As the Nation's oldest search and rescue organization, they conduct roughly thirty rescue missions each year--bringing climbers, hikers, and adventurers home safely. This volunteer-run nonprofit serves Hood River, Mount Hood, and the Columbia River Gorge with extraordinary skill and courage. Their members train relentlessly. To earn the title of Crag Rat, volunteers must summit Mount Hood and Mount Adams, complete first aid and incident command training, attend meetings consistently, and be voted in by their peers before even becoming probationary members. That standard reflects the seriousness of their mission and the trust our community places in them. As a physician, I understand the urgency of emergency responses. Minutes matter. Preparation matters. Lives depend on steady hands and clear heads. The work of search and rescue is demanding and dangerous, and it requires deep commitment to community. For one hundred years, the Crag Rats have embodied the very best of Oregon--service, resilience, humility, and courage. Their value is measured in missions completed, in families reunited, in tragedies averted, and in the quiet confidence our community feels knowing they stand ready. I thank every volunteer who has given time, strength, and expertise to this extraordinary organization. Mr. Speaker, please join me as I congratulate the Crag Rats on one hundred years of service and honor their enduring commitment to keep Oregon safe. ____________________