WASHINGTON, DC – In advance of the fifth anniversary of the EF5 tornado that struck Greensburg, Kansas on May 4, 2007, Senator Pat Roberts (R-Kan.) applauded the rebuilding efforts of Greensburg and how far it has come.

“Five years ago, hours after the storm hit, I headed to Greensburg with emergency responders,” said Roberts. “There were no words to describe what we saw; the total devastation; the loss of life. The town had literally been blown off the map. We went to work that day. All of us on the local, state and federal level pledged to the city that we’d work with them to bring Greensburg back. We were pleased to help expedite emergency assistance, as well as rural development grants and funds for public facilities. Piece by piece and with great resolve, it has happened thanks to so many who refused to give up.

“Just recently, in anticipation of the five year anniversary, I visited Greensburg to check on the most recent progress. It was wonderful to see a strong, dynamic city working hard to be on the cutting edge. The people of Greensburg are awe-inspiring, and have turned tragedy into triumph.

“As the city continues to mourn those who were lost on that tragic day, they also have reason to celebrate how far it has come. Greensburg continues to be stronger, better, greener, and an example to cities throughout the country that are rebuilding in the face of tragedy.”

In March, Senator Roberts toured Greensburg to see the new city developments and how residents continue to rebuild, including Kiowa County Commons and Kiowa County Media Center, Big Well Museum, Industrial Park, and other future community projects.

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