October 30th — Mine Rescue Day

October 30th is a fitting day to recognize mine rescuers.  On October 30, 1911, the first national mine rescue contest was held in the United States.  It was organized by Dr. Joseph A. Holmes, who in 1910 was appointed as the first director of the U.S. Bureau of Mines by President William Howard Taft.  The event was held at Forbes Field in Pittsburgh, PA, and was attended by Director Holmes and President Taft.