Town Employees Honored For Heroism During Severe Storm

TOWN OF ISLIP, NY - Several Town of Islip employees were recently honored for their heroism during the severe storm that slammed the area last month.

Islip Town Supervisor Angie Carpenter was joined by members of the Islip Town Board to recognize Town Harbormasters Dan Offermann and Bob Beck for helping to save lives during the storm that left boaters stranded and tens of thousands of residents without power on June 30.

The two men helped to rescue a family of five, whose catamaran capsized in the Great South Bay.

The family of two adults and three children had been treading water for 30 minutes before they were rescued.

The duo were also recognized for rescuing a sailor who became stranded during the same storm after his boat's mast and boom collapsed into the Great South Bay.

"Our employees are to be commended for their quick-thinking and life-saving actions during this treacherous storm," Carpenter said. "We are truly grateful that everyone was brought to safety unharmed."

In addition, Town of Islip Atlantique Marina Dock Master Frank Franzone and Dock Attendants Conner Dennehy and Tyler Vogt were honored at the recent town board meeting for keeping boaters and beach goers safe during the storm.

Image courtesy of the Town of Islip

The trio ran through wind, rain and hail, to tie up and secure boats in the Atlantique Marina.

The also kept residents protected inside a shed, and away from a snapped electrical pole, while te powerful storm rolled through the south shore.

"We truly have the most dedicated and selfless employees, here in the Town of Islip," Carpenter said. "They are truly deserving of this recognition."