Nebraska U.S. Senator Ben Sasse says Rachel Wilke will attend the State of the Union as his guest.
Rachel is the widow of James Wilke, who died trying to rescue a stranded driver from the floodwaters near Columbus last March.
“Rachel and her husband, James, are Nebraska strong. This family shows Americans what it means to love your neighbor," Sasse says
"James was selfless, hardworking, and our whole state stands behind Rachel and all of the other flood victims as we continue the long process of recovery." Wilkie was on a tractor heading to help the stranded motorist when the bridge his tractor was going over gave way and he was swept away by the floodwaters.
"Nebraskans have a lot of grit and integrity, that's why we can count on each other when we need it most. I'm honored to welcome Rachel to the State of the Union.”