Jackson County Deputy tells storm story

[Lindaloo]

"At times you certainly second guessed yourself as to why you were out on the road instead of a nice, comfortable shelter," Jackson County Lt. Brian White says.

But on August 29th, White's patrol car never stopped.

"Winds at the time, probably 125, 130, if not stronger," White says. "Areas that you would have never guessed could get water were completely underwater, vehicles floating, people floating out with pillows under their arms."

On Highway 63, White was around to help the dozens of people screaming and in need.

"All of a sudden, you look and see a head swimming towards you. It's a lady swimming towards you for help," White remembers. "She was scared to death. She said, 'We all underestimated the storm.'"

So did the many more calling 911.

"These people had called, they were stranded on the bridge. Someone had to go get them."

The family got scared when the water surge reached the top of the 1-10 bridge.

"We were thankful we were able to get to them, get them off of the bridge and to safety."

Not everyone was so lucky.

"Our dispatchers were receiving phone calls from people who had retreated to their attics, the water had gotten so high," White says. "There's no way we can get in to assist the people. Unfortunately, some of those who called for assistance, didn't make it out of the storm."

White says sometimes he felt helpless, other times scared. But he says looking back, he's glad he was there to help.

"I wouldn't trade this experience for nothing in the world. It's something I'll carry to my grave with me. It's something I can share with others."


http://www.wlox.com

[vbhoutex]

You're telling me th ewater made it to the top of the I-10 bridge N of Pascagoula?

[Lindaloo]

Yes, David. You would not believe the water we had and where it all went.

[bevgo]

The entire MS Gulf Coast took severe damage. I have visited Moss Point, Pascagoula, Biloxi, St. Martin, Gulf Port and Live in Ocean Springs. It is just incredible. I keep seeing all the destruction and asking how did this happen. Where did the water all come from. It looks as if EVERY waterway had serious flooding. The wind and water turned homes into piles of rubble. I have not made it to waveland, Diamondhead or anything past GP but from what I see and hear ithese areas were wipped clean. It is just so sad and depressing. So many lives lost, so many homes lost and so many dreams destroyed.

I am sorry for anyone that has lost family, freinds, and possessions in any storm this season (or past seasons) I just never realized how truly devastating it can be when it happens in your hometown. I was so blessed but have friends and family that lost EVERYTHING. I just thank God they are alive to start over.

Thankyou to all that have kept our friends and family in thoughts and prayers and those that gave of their own time, money or any other resource to help. We all do what we can to help those we care about but the kindness and generosity of strangers means more than words can convey.

(((((((((((((((((((((((((HUGS))))))))))))))))))))))))))))

Beverly