Manchin Statement on the One-Year Anniversary of the Historic Flooding in West Virginia

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV) released the following statement on the eve of the one-year anniversary of the historic flooding in West Virginia.

“Last June, we lost 23 of our own here in West Virginia after tragic flooding hit our state. Families, communities and businesses were devastated. But, as we always do in times of challenge and trial, West Virginians banded strongly together. Local fire halls and churches were food pantries and safe havens. First responders and National Guard members, as always, were heroes. And West Virginians from all backgrounds and corners of the state were organizers, ambassadors, and philanthropists.

“From the high school students who built tiny houses for flood survivors, to the volunteers who cleaned out homes and delivered supplies, and the neighbors who never forgot one another, the meaning of ‘West Virginian’ is now more deeply carved in stone. West Virginian means open, giving hands. It means casseroles and phone calls. It means friendly waves and encouraging friendships. And it means faith and conviction in the face of loss and adversity.

“President John F. Kennedy once, now famously, said “The sun does not always shine in West Virginia, but the people always do.” Last year at this time, the sun wasn’t shining – but as the floodwaters receded, our spirit would shine once again.” 

###

• Print
• Email
• Tweet