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It's been said the truest test of a person's character is how he or she reacts to adversity. In 2012, New Yorkers earned the highest marks.

"When people need help and you're able-bodied and you have the chance to do something about it, you take that chance," volunteer Ricardo Aguirre said.

Hurricane Sandy battered New York's shores on Oct. 29. The storm devastated coastal communities for miles.

"It's like a warzone, it's like living in a horror film," volunteer Shy Lampson said. "It's like nothing I've ever seen before."

In these neighborhoods, Sandy spared no one. But your spirit proved stronger than any storm.

In all five boroughs, you sprung into action. Thousands of you.

"We're moving sand, mud, soaking wet furniture that's been destroyed," volunteer Brandon d'Leo said. "We're also sending out large groups of people to look for seniors in the neighboring buildings."

Volunteers provided supplies, food and comfort from Rockaway Beach to Oakwood Beach to Gerritsen Beach.

"That grit that we claim we have, we are showing it now," volunteer Thomas Joseph Perone.

Grit, compassion and character. You took care of your neighbors, and your neighbors noticed.

"I usually don't get a lot of help from people in life," New Dorp Beach resident Joe Ettell said. "It's nice to see everybody finally coming together and just random strangers helping me out."

"Makes me feel good when you go there and they say 'How are you today? How are you getting by today?' So that right there means a lot," Far Rockaway resident Tracy Murreld said.

"Volunteers came to help. I couldn't believe that," Oakwood Beach resident John Delfino said. "It was very nice of everybody. I'm very appreciative. I can't believe all the help from the people. It's amazing."

That's why those who rose to the challenge after Hurricane Sandy are our New Yorkers of the Year.