Volunteer extends thanks, gratitude to all who helped

On the day of the disaster in America, I was dispatched to the Highlands Marina to provide emergency medical care to the sick and injured from New York City. On my arrival I established a command structure and led a very large group of both paid and volunteer emergency responders. There were physicians, nurse practitioners, paramedics, EMTs, firefighters and police.

In addition to the trained responders many civilians came to lend a hand in any capacity. Some brought us food and refreshments; others brought clothes and comfort features for the evacuees. Local residents freely allowed strangers in to their houses for phones and bathrooms while assisting the responders with moving their lawn furniture for public use. Many businesses came to donate any services I requested. It was organized chaos, but I lacked the free time to thank all the individuals who helped.

To all who helped, in any fashion, I thank you and our community thanks you.

Joe Acciavatti

Middletown

EMS Supervisor, MONOC