In the spring of 2015, Ken Ball, former Green River Councilman approached the office of Mayor Pete Rust with the idea of creating a proclamation to recognize National Mine Rescue Day in Green River. Ball, a local miner and Executive Board Member of the Holmes Mines Rescue Association, hoped that the city would call attention not only to the miners in Green River and all over Wyoming that are the bedrock of our economy, but also to those brave souls that risk their own lives to help their fellow miners.
This Friday, the city of Green River is celebrating Mine Rescue Day at the Mining Memorial Park at 4 p.m. The event is taking place in cooperation with the Chamber of Commerce and the Green River Arts Council, who will also be dedicating a beautiful new piece in the sculpture garden. “Shift Change,” a larger than life bronze by artist Bryan Cordova, will be set as the focal point of the park which also showcases large pieces from local mining companies.
Oct. 30 2015 will be the first time that the State of Wyoming recognizes Mine Rescue Day. Governor Mead’s schedule does not allow him to attend the event in but he has provided a proclamation that will be read by Senator Bernadine Craft. Along with the celebration and dedication of the sculpture, members of regional Mine Rescue Teams will give a demonstration simulating a mine rescue mission.
Secretary of State Ed Murray sent a letter to be read on his behalf; “… it was on this same day 104 years ago when the first national mine rescue demonstration was held in Pennsylvania. You join history today by renewing a commitment to build upon a legacy of promoting mine safety improvements and the importance of mine rescuers and their bravery.”
The number of times that mine rescuers have placed their own safety and lives at risk to save others during our mining history is staggering. These courageous souls undertake some of the most difficult and risky emergency response work, under some of the most arduous and treacherous conditions. On Mine Rescue Day, we salute the brave individuals who have exhibited unprecedented heroism in risking their own lives in the service of others.
National Mine Rescue Day was first recognized by US Labor Department’s Mine Safety and Health Association in 2013.
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