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OPA News Release: [07/29/2002]
Contact Name: Sue
Hensley
Phone Number: (202) 693-4676
U.S. Labor
Secretary Elaine L. Chao Celebrates Rescue
Mine Safety and Health
Administration Recognized for Leadership
WASHINGTON – Department
of Labor Secretary Elaine L. Chao released the following statement today
regarding the successful rescue of nine miners at the Quecreek Mine in
Somerset, Pa. early Sunday morning:
“I am overjoyed that the nine miners are rescued and in seemingly
good health. My best wishes go to the miners and their families who have
endured so much this past week. I also want to extend my heartfelt thanks and
congratulations to the men and women of the Mine Safety and Health
Administration (MSHA) who helped lead the mine rescue effort.
“Special recognition goes to Dave Lauriski, MSHA Assistant
Secretary, who was at the scene and personally directed MSHA’s activities
there, and to John Urosek, MSHA’s chief of the ventilation division in
Pittsburgh, Pa. John came up with the life-saving idea of holding back the
water by continuing to force compressed air into the cavity where the miners
were trapped.
“The accident at Quecreek was one of those worst-case scenarios
that the mining community works so hard to prevent. The ultimate happy ending
proved the value of decades of investment in mine safety techniques. The
training of the miners combined with the preparedness of both the private and
government employees involved in the rescue effort helped to bring about this
successful outcome.
“Our gratitude goes to the team at MSHA and the other rescue
workers – federal and state employees who worked together seamlessly to
save lives. Many of you traveled great distances and all of you worked without
rest to bring the miners home to their loved ones. We are grateful for your
courage, perseverance and heart!”
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