The Battle for Breezy Point

Book excerpt: On October 29, 2012, Hurricane Sandy struck Breezy Point, home to many New York City first responders. Firefighters from the Roxbury, Rockaway Point, and Point Breeze Volunteer Fire Departments remained on duty throughout the storm, ready to assist our neighbors. That night, our quiet, oceanfront community was ravaged by the hurricane's winds and waves, leaving 202 homes destroyed and 2,219 severely damaged. Another 126 homes were then devoured by one of the largest residential fires in New York City history. In the weeks following, our actions became international news and an inspiration for a massive recovery effort. Despite freezing temperatures and primitive conditions, volunteers from across the globe fought to save and rebuild our battered community. During this time, we witnessed incredible acts of bravery, sacrifice and selflessness by the volunteers and residents who struggled to carry on. This is our story.