Budzinski Honors Life of Firefighting Pilot Juliana Turchetti on House Floor

WASHINGTON, D.C. — This week, Congresswoman Nikki Budzinski (IL-13) spoke from the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives to honor Juliana Turchetti, an aerial firefighter from Springfield who lost her life fighting the Horse Gulch wildfire in Montana.

WATCH: Budzinski Honors Firefighting Pilot Juliana Turchetti on House floor

Budzinski’s remarks can be found below: 

“It’s with a heavy heart that I rise today to honor the life of a local hero – Juliana Turchetti – who lost her life fighting the Horse Gulch wildfire in Montana. 

Many Central Illinoisans know Juliana as the owner of Aviatori Coffee House in Springfield and will remember her for her warm smile. 

But she was also a skilled and passionate pilot — an admired figure in our aviation community. 

With over 6,000 flight hours, she has been flying airplanes for 17 years –  from agricultural dusting planes to her favorite: the Fire Boss.

A few months ago, when she took the next step to become a full-time aerial firefighter, Juliana said that it was a dream job and that she was proud to be a part of a mission.

She answered the call to service, stepping up to help protect communities and save lives. 

Juliana will be remembered for her bravery and passion, her devotion to her son, and her love of good coffee. As we mourn her loss, let us send our thoughts and prayers to her loved ones and everyone who has been touched and inspired by her life.”

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