Rep. Tom Tiffany (R-WI), who is currently running for governor in the state of Wisconsin, recalled his harrowing experience over the weekend after his plane was forced to make an emergency landing on a lake, an incident that would make just about anyone count their blessings and rethink their life’s priorities.
“We’re really fortunate that God was looking after us last night. And we’re also really fortunate that the first responders, those behind me, the fire department, the sheriff’s department, as well as the city of Wausau police, for their quick response,” Tiffany went on to say Sunday during a press conference.“We’re really fortunate for what they did, and I can’t thank them enough for helping us in this situation.”
Getting emotional, Tiffany added, “I have to say that the gravity of this is probably just hitting me at this point. Tiffany also revealed that he sustained “minor injuries,” but noted that he was otherwise fine. The Wisconsin Republican took to social media where he said that the plane’s power went out on Saturday night as it was approaching Wausau Downtown Airport.
According to a report from The Hill, Tiffany was on his way home after attending the La Crosse County Lincoln Day Dinner when the pilot decided to make an emergency landing in Lake Wausau. “After landing, we called 911,” he said to reporters. “As the plane began to submerge, we exited the aircraft and swam to a shallow area, where we waited until emergency responders reached us by boat.”
Tiffany then expressed his gratitude to the pilot, the folks at the Wausau Fire Department, and “all of the first responders who came to our aid so quickly.” He then added, “They got us safely off the water and transported us to Aspirus Wausau Hospital, where we received excellent care.” Folks in the comment section had a lot to say about the incident.
“A terrifying experience that could have ended much worse. Grateful that everyone made it out safely, and a reminder of how important skill, preparation, and quick thinking are in an emergency,” one user said on Facebook. “One minute you’re flying, the next you’re fighting for your life. Absolutely terrifying,” another went on to say.
Another comment noted that when you see a politician break down in tears over such an experience, it reminds us that they are simply people too, not just political opponents to attack. “Seeing a politician break down in tears reminding us that they are just regular human beings with families who love them. Glad everyone walked away with minor injuries,” the user said.
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“What a class act. He gave the first responders a big basket of fruit at the end of the news conference,” someone else said. “God did not pull away his protective angels, which he can do when he brings people home to himself. That is going to hit Tom pretty hard for the remainder of his days. It’s a message from above that @Tom Tiffany has work to do yet. Family, work, worship,” another individual wrote.
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