On April 9, 1999, homes and lives were lost in the greatest tragedy to ever strike Montgomery, Ohio.

Imagine being woken from a deep sleep by wailing storm sirens. Disoriented, you break the darkness by turning on the television, and a meteorologist warns that your street is in the direct path of a tornado. In an instant, you realize that you and your family only have a few adrenaline-fueled moments before the storm hits your home.

What was it like to be a first responder on the scene, knowing you are in the midst of the most harrowing event in a community’s history? And one that no drill or training could ever truly prepare you for.

How does a community attempt to rebuild and heal after being struck by such a horrific tragedy? This podcast tells their stories.