Here is the Proclamation as written by FAA-VP Bob Hoover.
Thanks Bob!
If you went to New Orleans and can make the trip to Tallahassee on April 21, please call me ASAP as we're making plans now. 813-968-6154. It's YOU FOLKS who risked life & limb for this recognition for the benefit of all airboaters and we thank you!
We will attempt to get copies of this Proclamation (suitable for framing) to all who went to N.O. that we locate.
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RESOLUTION OF COMMENDATION
TO THE AIRBOATERS OF FLORIDA
WHEREAS airboating is a traditional form of family recreation in Florida; and
WHEREAS airboaters are adept at navigating marshes, the shallow waters of lakes, rivers, bogs and swamps.
WHEREAS airboaters have become an invaluable asset to law enforcement and public safety due to their ability to provide a unique resource for search and rescue; and,
WHEREAS the airboater has learned through experience how to maneuver through treacherous conditions and obstacles; and,
WHEREAS airboaters are willing to assist in the worst of physical conditions to help their fellow man without regard to their personal wellbeing; and
WHEREAS the airboaters of Florida went, as volunteers, to assist in the rescue efforts after Hurricane Katrina; and,
WHEREAS these volunteer airboaters endured toxic and polluted waters, life threatening conditions, costly damage to their vessels and extreme physical hardship; and,
WHEREAS these volunteer airboaters continue to train and offer their services to all levels of government and public safety for search and rescue operations; and,
WHEREAS the determination and dedication of these individuals is an example for all; and,
WHEREAS these volunteer airboaters as members of the Florida Airboat Association are engaged in developing an airboat rescue service for pets and animals that are also victims of flooding disasters like that which occurred following Hurricane Katrina;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Governor and Cabinet of the State of Florida do hereby commend and congratulate the volunteer Florida airboaters who saved numerous lives in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina and recognize the heroic efforts of these selfless individuals.
IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, the Governor and Cabinet of the State of Florida have hereunto subscribed their names and have caused the Official Seal of the State of Florida to be hereunto affixed in the City of Tallahassee on this 21st day of April, 2006.
