Red Cross On Film: Sully - How We Played A Role

Lights. Camera. Action.

On January 15, 2009, the world witnessed the “Miracle on the Hudson” when Captain “Sully” Sullenberger glided his disabled plane onto the frigid waters of the Hudson River. On that day, the American Red Cross was on the scene bringing much needed relief to the passengers and crew.

The Red Cross recreated their rescue actions for the major motion picture Sully, directed by Oscar-winning director Clint Eastwood. Red Cross volunteers and employees from the original disaster response served as extras, portraying their dedicated service by wrapping passengers in blankets for warmth and providing critical comfort and hope following such a traumatic event.

The American Red Cross was proud to be a partner with this film which, in part, honors the bravery and dedication of our volunteers in New York City and those around the world who provide these services every day.

The Real-Life Red Cross Story

After U.S. Airways Flight 1549, the “Miracle on the Hudson”, made a dramatic landing on the icy Hudson River, the American Red Cross immediately mobilized volunteers, staff and relief to address the emergency needs of more than 150 individuals who evacuated the plane in sub-zero temperatures. Red Cross teams arrived at the NY Piers in time to greet the cold and frightened passengers and crew with hundreds of blankets and dry clothes as they disembarked from the rescue boats on the West Side of Manhattan.

Among the Red Cross relief workers on scene were mental-health professionals trained to provide emotional support following traumatic emergencies. Volunteers stayed with the passengers and crew as they were transported to local hospitals and to the U.S. Airways Family Assistance Center (FAC). The Red Cross also staged relief services at the FAC—providing food, health support and crisis counseling for the passengers and crew. Additionally, the Red Cross worked around the clock to support first responders.

The Red Cross: On Film

The Red Cross: On Film

Lights. Camera. Action.

The Real-Life Red Cross Story