SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 49

	WHEREAS, Curtis Patterson of Waco was recently honored by 
the Carnegie Hero Fund Commission for saving the life of a fellow 
Texan on June 12, 2001, and this well-deserved accolade provides 
a fitting opportunity to commend Mr. Patterson's heroic actions; 
and

	WHEREAS, En route home from her job in Waco,
Margaret Ratliff, a 33-year-old mother of three, lost control
of her car and struck a utility pole near China Spring; the pole 
snapped, and live wires sparked a grass fire beneath the car; and

	WHEREAS, Mr. Patterson was also headed home from work when 
he observed Ms. Ratliff trapped inside her Mercedes and quickly 
came to her aid; disregarding the lethal threat posed by the 
downed power lines, he pried open the passenger-side door, cut 
her free from her seatbelt, and pulled her to safety; moments 
later, the car was completely engulfed in flames; and

	WHEREAS, The prompt intervention and quick thinking
of Curtis Patterson saved Ms. Ratliff from serious injury or 
possible death, and the spirit of selflessness and bravery that 
he displayed is truly deserving of recognition; now, therefore, 
be it

	RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas,
78th Legislature, hereby commend Curtis Patterson for
his exceptional courage and composure in the face of a 
life-threatening situation; and, be it further

	RESOLVED, That an official copy of this Resolution be 
prepared for Mr. Patterson as an expression of high regard by
the Texas Senate.
                                                                         Averitt




________________________________ 
    President of the Senate
 
    I hereby certify that the 
above Resolution was adopted by 
the Senate on January 28, 2003.



________________________________ 
    Secretary of the Senate



________________________________ 
     Member, Texas Senate