SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 477


In Memory

of

Charles Krenek

J. "Buzz" Mier


	WHEREAS, In the aftermath of the space shuttle Columbia
disaster, citizens throughout the southwest have made vital 
contributions to sharing the burden of this unfortunate and 
tragic event; and
	WHEREAS, Helicopter searches have played a significant 
role in the recovery process, and to date crews have flown over 
1.7 million acres in an effort to locate shuttle debris; and
	WHEREAS, On March 27, 2003, a helicopter performing just 
such a heroic operation crashed in San Augustine County, injuring 
three people and killing the craft's pilot, J. "Buzz" Mier of 
Arizona and Charles Krenek of Lufkin, who was an employee of the 
Texas Forest Service; and
	WHEREAS, When their helicopter went down, Mr. Krenek and 
Mr. Mier were taking part in a critical search operation, one 
that holds the hope of making future space shuttle missions safer 
for our astronauts; although the loss of additional lives 
compounds the Columbia tragedy, their sacrifice will long be 
remembered by all who were privileged to know these fine men; 
now, therefore, be it
	RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas,
78th Legislature, hereby pay tribute to the lives of Charles Krenek
and J. "Buzz" Mier and extend sincere sympathy to the families 
and friends of these fallen heroes; and, be it further
	RESOLVED, That an official copy of this Resolution be 
prepared for their families and that when the Texas Senate 
adjourns this day, it do so in memory of Charles Krenek and
J. "Buzz" Mier.
                                                                         Staples




________________________________ 
    President of the Senate
 
    I hereby certify that the 
above Resolution was adopted by 
the Senate on March 31, 2003, by a 
rising vote.



________________________________ 
    Secretary of the Senate



________________________________ 
     Member, Texas Senate