First Rescue Mission Ends in Heroic Effort During Texas Floods

Petty Officer Scott Ruskan, a 26-year-old rescue swimmer, faced his first emergency operation amid severe flooding in Texas. Having recently completed rescue swimming training after switching from a career in accounting, Ruskan responded rapidly when called to assist local search-and-rescue teams early Friday morning.

The mission was urgent: torrential rains had caused the Guadalupe River to surmount its banks, flooding nearby camps and neighborhoods. In Kerr County, floodwaters rose from about 3 to nearly 30 feet, threatening the safety of over 200 campers at Camp Mystic, an all-girls Christian summer camp.

With bridges submerged and roads impassable, evacuations relied solely on air support. The crew encountered treacherous weather conditions, with a journey originally expected to take an hour stretching to six or seven. Despite the storm’s brutality, they managed to reach the camp after multiple attempts, aided by the Texas National Guard and Air National Guard helicopters.

Upon arrival, Ruskan was alone on-site with approximately 200 frightened children, many barefoot and injured, seeking safety. He comforted them and coordinated rescue efforts, as communications were hampered by poor radio and cell service. For about three hours, Ruskan provided reassurance and physically carried children to rescue helicopters, primarily focusing on the youngest first.

The operation eventually evacuated around 165 campers, but the flooding claimed the lives of 27 girls and their counselors, including the camp’s longtime director who lost his life trying to save others. Overall, at least 100 people perished in the floods.

Ruskan’s heroism earned recognition from the Department of Homeland Security, calling his actions “extraordinary bravery.” He emphasized that the efforts of fellow rescuers and the resilience of the children were equally heroic, adding, “it made me a better rescuer.”