Delroy Simmonds was on his way to a job interview that he hoped would provide financial stability for his family, including two daughters ages 8 and 5. Fate intervened, however, and while Simmonds missed the job interview, his heroic actions saved the life of a child.
Simmonds, a resident of Brooklyn, was waiting on the subway platform at the Van Siclen Avenue station in Cypress Hills for the train that would take him to his interview. While he was waiting, a strong gust of wind came out of nowhere and blew a small 9-month-old boy – still strapped in his stroller – onto the path of an oncoming subway train.
Putting his own safety aside, Simmonds jumped onto the elevated tracks and pulled the child to safety just as the train bore down on him. Bystanders were amazed by his courageous act.
The child had a gash on his forehead, and was bleeding. He was taken to Brookdale University Hospital where he was treated for his cuts, and then released in good health.
Simmonds had been searching for a job for over a year, and was anxious for the interview for a maintenance position at a warehouse. While he didn’t make it to this specific interview, his heroic actions saved the life of another, and created a lasting impression on those who witnessed his heroic act.