Mayor Honors Local Heroes for Rescue Efforts During Hurricane

Mayor Chuck Brawner, second from left, honors, from left, Doug Johnson, Pat Lester, and Lane Johnson for their rescue efforts during Hurricane Harvey (George Slaughter photo)

By George Slaughter

When Hurricane Harvey hit the Katy area in August, volunteers joined the first responders in helping their neighbors in peril, some even risking their own lives under dangerous conditions.

Now that the storm has passed and rebuilding efforts are underway, the city is recognizing some of those “Harvey’s Heroes.”

At the start of the November 13 city council meeting at City Hall, Mayor Chuck Brawner issued three certificates of recognition to Doug Johnson, his son Lane Johnson, and Pat Lester. All three were part of an effort to rescue people in their homes who were trapped when the floodwaters hit.

Brawner said that such rescue efforts saved approximately 350 lives.

The certificate reads: “’Above and beyond’ is simple and the words are few, but behind them are a whole lot of appreciation for all you did under unbelievable circumstances in rescuing and saving the lives of Katy residents during Hurricane Harvey. The collective efforts of all who came together helped provide immediate aid, hope and support to our citizens in need, and words can never express our gratitude. On behalf of Katy City Council, Public Safety personnel, Staff and our citizens, ‘Thank You’ for your assistance and for the greatest display of human kindness.”

Doug Johnson is a professional drag race announcer and writes for Drag Illustrated magazine. Lane Johnson is a delivery driver and stocker at Panera Bread at La Centerra. Lester is an account representative with Master Brick. All three are Katy High School graduates.

“Being honored by the City of Katy means a lot,” Doug Johnson said.

The presentation was the first such. Brawner said some people from San Antonio were also active in rescue operations, and he was hoping to have them be recognized at the December 11 council meeting.

“You can’t prepare for this until it happens,” Doug Johnson said. “The city was bombarded with rescue calls. The city was bombarded by folks who wanted to help, but they didn’t know where to go, and I’m just glad that FEMA happened to be here.”