04/23/2025
The Hamptons, Korey, Mitch, and Michael, co-owners of French Broad Adventures, are no strangers to rescue operations. As volunteer firefighters at Walnut Community Volunteer Fire Department, they have answered distress calls for heart attacks, car crashes, and the occasional drowning victim. But nothing could have prepared them for what they would face during and in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene.
Our staff members, whose training and skillset are normally used to entertain tourists while expertly guiding them down the river, were called upon to use their expertise to save lives and recover bodies for grieving families. Along with their rescue work on the river, our staff members shuttled people and provisions—first through floodwaters and then over debris-strewn ground—checked on residents, provided clean food and water, and generally were lifesavers to all.
We've always known that our team is exceptional. French Broad Adventures staff has always been family. Even so, their tireless and heroic work in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene astounded us and surpassed all expectations. We've never been prouder of our team, and we will always be grateful for their selflessness and bravery.
We've created a page on our website to recognize our staff, tell our story, and honor all those affected by Hurricane Helene. Link to the page below in our comments.