Coast Guard Hero Shares Powerful Account of Rescuing Over 200 Children from Texas Floods
More details have emerged about the incredible rescue efforts led by Coast Guard member Scott Ruskan, who played a crucial role in saving more than 200 children from the devastating floods that struck Camp Mystic in Texas.
The recent floods across the Lone Star State have tragically claimed the lives of at least 91 people, with many still missing amid the widespread destruction caused by the swollen Guadalupe River. Torrential rains caused the river to surge rapidly, inundating homes and communities.
Camp Mystic, a Christian girls’ summer camp nestled on the riverbanks in Kerr County, was among the hardest-hit sites. In a heartfelt statement, the camp expressed deep sorrow for the lives lost and the families affected:
“Our hearts break alongside the families enduring this unimaginable tragedy. We are praying for them constantly,” the camp shared, adding gratitude for the overwhelming support from first responders, officials, and the community.
As of now, ten campers and one counselor remain unaccounted for, while reports confirm 27 lives lost among campers and staff.
Amid this catastrophe, 26-year-old Coast Guard rescue swimmer Scott Ruskan emerged as a beacon of hope. Hailing from New Jersey, Ruskan was on duty when the floods struck and quickly became the pivotal figure in evacuating 165 people from Camp Mystic on July 5.
In a compelling interview with Good Morning America, Ruskan recounted the chaos and how he managed to orchestrate the life-saving evacuation:
“I was the only first responder on-site at Camp Mystic, which had become our main triage location. There were nearly 200 children, scared, cold, and facing what was likely the worst day of their lives. My mission was clear—triage, stabilize, and get them out of the flood zone.”
He described setting up two helicopter landing zones—one on an archery field and another on a soccer field—to facilitate the rescue helicopters’ arrival and departure. Ruskan personally helped carry many of the children to safety, guided by the rigorous training he received as a Coast Guard rescue swimmer.
“The training Coast Guard rescue swimmers get is among the most advanced in the world. That preparation was key in managing this rescue, though any one of my fellow rescue swimmers would have done the same or even better,” he said modestly.
Ruskan also praised the children’s resilience, calling them “the real heroes.”
“They didn’t care about my rank or experience. They just knew I was there to help, and I had to live up to that trust. The kids on the ground were courageous beyond belief, facing one of the toughest moments of their lives, and their strength inspired me every step of the way.”
Scott Ruskan’s story is a testament to bravery, training, and the indomitable spirit of those caught in tragedy. His efforts, alongside countless first responders, saved hundreds of lives and offered a glimmer of hope amid the heartbreaking losses caused by the Texas floods.