Wednesday, February 3, 2016

Remembering Valhalla: One Year Later

By Peter Belfiore, American Red Cross

One year ago today, the community of Valhalla, N.Y. was forever changed when a Metro North commuter train derailed, caught fire and took six lives. On this painful anniversary, we remember those who were tragically lost that night and we also recognize those everyday heroes who stepped up during unthinkable circumstances to minimize the effects of this tragedy.     

At our Honoring Our Heroes Gala in October, we recognized three of these individuals—James Wallace, Michael Wolfert and Riley Dejong—who performed extraordinary acts after the derailment.



Dejong was not in the country at the time of the Gala so we were delighted to present her with her medal as we approached the one-year anniversary. 

Metro NY North Red Cross CEO Mary Young (R)
presents Riley Dejong with her medal.
The Red Cross was also on the scene that night, providing comfort to shaken passengers, as well as warm food and drink to emergency first responders who worked throughout the night in extreme cold conditions. Learn more about the Red Cross response.


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