An Airboat on the Streets of New Orleans

Millions of people around the world watched in disbelief as New Orleans homes were flooded -- some to the rooftops -- as a result of Hurricane Katrina in the summer of 2005. The flood was part of the worst natural disaster in U.S. history.

The plight of the victims of the flood drew thousands of people to the city to help in the rescue effort. Two of those who volunteered were a Cajun couple from Breaux Bridge, La., who hitched up their airboat, headed for New Orleans, and saved more than 500 people in three days.

Their heroic journey is described in a book titled An Airboat on the Streets of New Orleans.

The couple who are the focus of the book are Douglas Bienvenu, who had been in trouble with the law on numerous occasions in the past; and Drue LeBlanc, who, though suffering with a severe case of kidney disease, put her life at high risk by working in the filthy, bacteria-laden floodwaters.

Most of those rescued by the couple were trapped in their flooded homes. Among them were two women in their nineties who were stuck in their attic, a couple of old men on the verge of drowning, and a baby with asthma who was badly in need of medical attention.

One of those saved from the floodwaters, Ann Nathan, points out in the book just how grateful she is to her rescuers: "If it hadn't been for them, we wouldn't be here today to talk about it. Nobody else came for us. We had an S.O.S. sign on our roof, and waved flashlights at night, but nobody came for us. But Doug and Drue came. I look on them as angels."

Also expressing his gratitude was New Orleans Mayor Ray Nagin, who issued certificates to Bienvenu and LeBlanc recognizing their heroism and humanitarian efforts.

Category:

Education

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[thejonrusso]

Another tragedy in this story is that Drue LeBlanc is *still* suffering from severe kidney disease, some five years later.

[robertjgunn]

sitting here with Jeff Cormier listening to some great stories about the craziest cajun he's ever met.. My thoughts and prayer are with you and ur lovely wife.. thanks for sharing..

[akemigfc]

This video showcased two true heroes. Thank you for putting this together and letting the world know about these amazing human beings.