by John Rose, U.S. Representative – Tennessee’s Sixth Congressional District
WASHINGTON—Today, U.S. Representative John Rose (TN-6) released this statement reflecting on the one-year anniversary of the catastrophic tornado that tragically struck Middle Tennessee, causing tangible damage in Smith County, and devasting communities in Putnam and Wilson counties:
“As we mark one year since the devasting tornado tore through Middle Tennessee, let us take time to pause and remember the lives that were sadly lost, the many families and businesses that were tragically affected, and the brave first responders that put their lives on the line to rescue others.
“The morning of Tuesday, March 3, 2020, 22 lost their lives, and major damage to homes, buildings, roads, bridges, utilities, and businesses was reported. This one-year anniversary is a very somber reminder of the fragility of life, the deadly force of nature, and the void we feel since the passing of the friends, family, and neighbors we lost.
“The day after the deadly storm hit, I visited the affected communities and have returned many times in the weeks and months that followed this unprecedented tragedy. I’ve seen firsthand the transition from dealing with disaster to rebuilding.
“Today, the Sixth Congressional District stands as a symbol of the extraordinary resilience of the individuals who live and work here. There was no hesitation from emergency workers and community members to begin the cleanup and salvage process. They didn’t wait for the cavalry to arrive; they just went to work for their fellow man. This bias for action, the deeply rooted belief that we are our brother’s keeper, defines the Volunteer Spirit.
“In the face of tragedy and in the face of hardship, Tennesseans come together to help restore, rebuild, and create a better future—just like they did one year ago today. My family and I will continue to pray for the lives lost and for the continued efforts to rebuild even stronger.”
In Congress, Representative Rose fought alongside his Tennessee colleagues to secure federal resources for the victims to ensure they had what they needed to help rebuild. Following their actions, President Trump approved federal assistance for the storm ravaged communities to help with recovery and rebuilding efforts. Representative Rose accompanied President Trump during the former President’s tour of the damage, meeting with tornado survivors, and visit to Jefferson Avenue Church of Christ in Cookeville, which served as a relief hub for several months following the storm.
U.S. Representative John Rose is currently serving his second term representing Tennessee’s Sixth Congressional District and resides in Cookeville with his wife, Chelsea, and their son, Guy. The Sixth District includes Cannon, Clay, Coffee, Cumberland, DeKalb, Fentress, Jackson, Macon, Overton, Pickett, Putnam, Robertson, Smith, Sumner, Trousdale, White, and Wilson counties as well as portions of Cheatham and Van Buren counties. Representative Rose is an eighth-generation farmer, small business owner, and currently serves on the Financial Services Committee.
