In a remarkable display of bravery and quick thinking, Petty Officer Scott Ruskin of the U.S. Coast Guard successfully rescued 165 individuals trapped by severe flooding in Texas. This mission, which marked the first of Ruskin’s career, took place at Camp Mystic, where he and his crew faced treacherous weather conditions for over five hours before reaching the scene.

The flooding, which has devastated the area, left many campers and counselors in dire straits. Ruskin’s heroism not only ensured the safety of the 165 victims but also demonstrated the critical role played by first responders in emergencies. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem commended Ruskin, stating, “This Coast Guard rescue directly saved an astonishing 165 victims from the devastating flooding.”

Upon arrival at the camp, Ruskin encountered a chaotic situation filled with frightened children, many of whom were experiencing one of the most traumatic days of their lives. “A lot of them had minor injuries, but thankfully nothing too serious,” Ruskin recalled. “I tried to be the voice of calm and triage people to get them to safety as best I could.”

The majority of those rescued were young girls who had been left shaken by the unexpected flood. Ruskin emphasized the importance of providing comfort to these frightened campers, stating, “I was just doing my job.” His focus on triaging and supporting the survivors was crucial, especially given the overwhelming fear and uncertainty they faced.

The conditions at the camp were perilous, with high floodwaters posing a significant risk. Ruskin opted to remain on dry land to coordinate the triage efforts, allowing other rescue crews to enter the water. “Even as a professional rescuer, I was nervous about getting into the water,” he explained. “I can’t imagine how 8, 9, 10-year-olds were feeling. They are the true heroes in this situation.”

Ruskin also highlighted the critical actions taken by the camp counselors before his team arrived, acknowledging their efforts in saving lives amidst the chaos. His reflection on the scene underscored the tragic nature of the event and the need to recognize the bravery shown by both the counselors and the children.

The emotional weight of the rescue did not escape Ruskin, who, at just 26 years old, felt a personal connection to the young victims. “I have a lot of younger family and friends, and I thought, wow, that could have been my family in that situation,” he said. This perspective fueled his determination to assist those in need.

As the community begins to recover from this natural disaster, the story of Petty Officer Scott Ruskin serves as a powerful reminder of the courage exhibited by first responders and the resilience of those who face unimaginable circumstances. His actions not only saved lives but also inspired hope and admiration in the face of adversity.