It started out like most fishing trips for David Hunt of Levittown - find the time and then call your fishing partner to see if he's available. In this case, Melvin Peterson of Freeport got the call.

The next decision was where to go and it was decided that they would meet at Jones Beach West End as it was rumored that some striped bass were "working bait" along the surf. Armed with some clams and lures the two set off for an evening of fishing Tuesday, Aug. 1.

Fishing was slow but the surf seemed better for a couple of boogie boarders who were sloshing around at water's edge. Keeping an eye on them, the fisherman continued their quest for bass. A few minutes later Hunt saw one of the boys flailing his arms and acting as if he were in trouble. He also witnessed the other fellow swim out to his friend, only to turn back.

Hunt approached the guy upon his return to the beach to find out that he was afraid to assist the other fellow fearing safety for his own life. The man in the water was caught in a rip tide, was not a strong swimmer and was in a state of panic.

Thinking of his own safety and family, Hunt did the next best thing armed with the only tool he had - his surf rod. The first cast was wide but the second was on target. The three-ounce sinker and hook traveled over the head of the distraught man, with the 12-pound test line coming within his reach. The line slipped through his fingers until it reached the sinker, whereby he held on. Peterson dialed 911 for assistance.

Hunt didn't know if he had hooked him or the man was just holding on, but he had him, and now he had to play him as if he were the biggest bass he had ever hooked. Many thoughts ran through his head within seconds: will the 12-pound test line break? Will the knot hold? Will the swivel straighten out? Is he hooked? When he falls behind a wave, I must bow to him to give him line and not put too much tension on this 12-pound test, Hunt thought.

Hunt slowly walked the beach with the man in tow, easing him out of the rip tide. When the timing was right he backed up the beach slowly towing the man into the wash where he could stand. Hunt and Peterson ran to assist him and led him to safety.

Few words were exchanged; what's your name? "Kevin" was the reply. "Mine's David." "Thank you" was the reply with Hunt asking Kevin not to go in the water anymore this evening. "OK" was the reply.

Hunt then walked back up the beach to inform arriving rescuers, the Merrick Fire Department, Nassau County Police, State Park Police, U.S. Coast Guard, Freeport Fire Department Dive Team and the Wantagh Fire Department Dive Team, that the victim, Kevin, was out of the water.

David walked to his car and drove away.

About halfway home Hunt pulled to the side of the road. He was shaking; the adrenaline rush he experienced was coming back to normal. He had just saved someone's life, a man named "Kevin" and it was the biggest catch of his life.