Cloaked in the summer Sunday shadows under the Cross Bay Veterans Memorial Bridge, four Howard Beach firefighters saved two kayakers from the perilous waters of Jamaica Bay, the City smoke-eaters’ union announced this week.
According to the Uniformed Firefighters Association, members of Ladder Co. 173—which is quartered along with Engine Co. 331 at the firehouse on Cross Bay Boulevard and 159th Avenue—quickly responded to calls of seafarers in distress. Led by Capt. Ian Perdikou, Firefighter Scott Hamelburg was lowered 50 feet down to the murky water by Firefighters Brendan Mohan and Joseph La Barba.
Despite hazardous debris, Hamelburg secured the kayakers and guided them to safety with the help of an NYPD harbor vessel.
“Their quick thinking and teamwork averted a tragedy,” UFA leaders said. “Bravo to these courageous firefighters!”
Photo Courtesy of UFA