In May of 2003 work began on the first large project of the Shadow Angel Foundation.  With the assistance of the Metropolis Planet, located in Metropolis, Illinois, we put together a book that told the stories of those hit hardest by the killer tornado outbreak.  The book Chronicles the events of that horrific night.  Copies are still available on a limited basis.  A special thank you to Clyde Wills, Editor and Publisher of the Metropolis Planet, Rachel Lindsey, and Tracy Douglas who worked tirelessly on interviewing victims of the storm.

I want to dedicate this book to the people of Southern Illinois who demonstrated the best qualities of heroism...selfless giving...and compassion in the aftermath of the May 6th tornado.

There were many stories of heroism from that night. There have also been many stories of strangers helping strangers. However, the story of how one father gave his life in order to protect his family has touched everyone in the community. At 9:30 p.m. on the night of May 6th, 2003, Steve Kohn along with his wife, Julie, hurried to get their 8-year old son Danny into the basement of their home. Seconds later an F4 tornado leveled that home. Steve was killed while protecting Danny and Julie. There are many definitions of what a hero is...and certainly Steve fits them all.

I was inspired when I first met Danny...first by his outlook on life and second by his ability to put everything into perspective. His spirit of survival and determination will surely take him far in life. With his mother Julie being the wind beneath his wings, I am sure Danny will touch many lives in the years to come.

Danny is but one example of the spirit of courage and determination that has been shown over the past few months by those hardest hit by the tornado.

Those who put this book together have worked hard to make it a true reflection of what happened that awful night back in May. I believe they have captured the moment and put it into words that demonstrate not only the terror that struck that night but also the spirit that makes our communities so strong.