Shimkus, Schock Remember Deadly Tornadoes

WASHINGTON – Congressman John Shimkus (R-Illinois-15) and Congressman Aaron Schock (R-Illinois-18) released the following statements on the one year anniversary of a series of deadly storms in Illinois. A total of 73 tornadoes were confirmed throughout the Midwest on November 17, 2013, claiming eight lives and inflicting much of their damage on areas represented by Congressmen Shimkus and Schock.

“Some of the most destructive tornadoes in last year’s outbreak struck near Brookport, New Minden and Gifford in my district,” said Shimkus. “The day after the storms I went to see the damage in Brookport, where three lives were lost and New Minden, where two lives were lost. My staff assisted me in surveying the damage in other parts of the district in the following days, and I visited Gifford less than a week later.”

“A year later, I’m impressed by how these communities came together to rebuild and, in my recent visits, I’ve been pleased to see more recovery than not,” Shimkus continued. “I ask all my constituents to join me in keeping the loved ones of the lost in their thoughts and prayers today.”

“The morning the tornadoes struck, I left church to go immediately to the disaster zone.  When I arrived, people were still climbing out of the rubble, and helping loved ones get to safety,” Schock said. “Our first responders in the 18th District did an amazing job, as fireman, police, emergency personnel and volunteers worked to help families who had lost everything.”

“My office continues to monitor the progress of rebuilding and work closely with affected constituents to find the resources they need. Last year’s tornadoes put our local emergency response systems to the most challenging test, and Illinoisans pulled together as communities and come back stronger. Our thoughts and prayers continue on behalf of those who lost precious loved ones and personal property.”

Reps. Shimkus and Schock ordered five flags to be flown over the United States Capitol in Washington, D.C., commemorating the anniversary of last year’s storms and honoring the men and women who have worked to rebuild affected communities. The flags will be given to the City of Washington, Tazewell County, Gifford, New Minden and Brookport.

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