This used to be a big fishing pier. The building had a convenience store, baitshop and restaurant downstairs with an apartment above.
During the hurricane, the apartment people decided (foolishly) to stay to ride the storm out. The pier had withstood several other hurricanes,
including Hurricane Carla.

The storm fell during the night. During the height of the storm, the lower floor was obliterated by the 26 ft. storm surge.
They called for help and the Coast Guard said "We'll get you in the morning."

Procedure at this point... You are supposed to write your social security ID number on your forearm with a permanent
magic marker and hope for the best.

Fortunately, they were rescued by helicopter in the morning. They kissed the ground when they got on shore. I don't blame them.
Checkout video of the rescue below ~