The American Red Cross honored the City of Milford as the 2016 Community Resilience Hero at the 17th Annual Connecticut Heroes Breakfast on Friday, April 29.
The City of Milford was honored for their long-term recovery following Superstorm Sandy and Hurricane Irene. In 2012, Superstorm Sandy destroyed most of the state’s shoreline. The storm impacted the state with heavy wind and rain that downed power lines and trees, leaving the communities along Long Island sound completely destroyed. The devastating storm caused massive destruction and a long journey for recovery.
“The City of Milford showed tremendous determination and community spirit when recovering from both Hurricane Irene and Sandy,” said Mario Bruno, CEO, American Red Cross Connecticut and Rhode Island Region. “We were fortunate to work side-by-side with the city and volunteers to help ensure safety to residents during the storm and we’ve been working together ever since on the community’s road to recovery."
In October 2012, Superstorm Sandy hit the coast of Milford, Connecticut, destroying much of the shoreline. During the months and years following the storm, the City of Milford has worked with government and civilian forces to restore their broken shoreline, while upholding a standard of excellence. Thanks to the efforts of Milford’s Fire, Police, Public Works, and Health Departments, the National Guard, and civilian heroes, Milford was able to have the streets cleared and safe for travel in only a week’s time.
In reaction to the City of Milford’s nomination for the award, Mayor Benjamin Blake stated “We’ve been tested and we have withstood each test, and once again, we’ve proven what we’ve always held to be true, that if you’re lucky enough to live in Milford, you’re lucky enough.”