Heroic Coast Guard Swimmer Saves 165 Lives in Texas Floods

Petty Officer 3rd Class Scott Ruskan, a U.S. Coast Guard rescue swimmer, has been hailed as a national hero after saving 165 lives during the devastating flash floods in Central Texas. This was Ruskan’s first rescue mission, and he served as the sole triage coordinator at the scene. Ruskan and his team worked tirelessly to evacuate nearly 200 people, including those trapped at Camp Mystic, a Christian summer camp in Texas’ Hill Country that suffered severe flood damage.
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem praised Ruskan on social media, calling him an “American hero” whose actions embodied the spirit of the Coast Guard. The White House also commended Ruskan, noting that he and his aircrew saved 165 lives on their first mission. Democrats, including Sen. Andy Kim, D-N.J., also expressed gratitude for Ruskan’s bravery.
Despite challenging weather conditions, Ruskan and his team set up landing zones on an archery field and soccer field to facilitate evacuations. Ruskan even relinquished his spot on a helicopter to accommodate more survivors. “This is what I signed up for,” Ruskan told the New York Post, emphasizing that any Coast Guard member would have acted similarly in the situation.
At least 104 people, including 28 children, have died in the floods, with dozens still missing. Ruskan’s heroism stands as a testament to the resilience and selflessness of first responders in the face of disaster.

Published: 7/8/2025