In the midst of a catastrophic natural disaster that gripped Central Texas over the Fourth of July weekend, one man rose to meet the moment with extraordinary courage, humility, and determination. Petty Officer Scott Ruskan, a 26-year-old U.S. Coast Guard rescue swimmer, embarked on his very first mission—and in that single operation, he managed to save an astonishing 165 lives. This wasn’t a typical assignment or training exercise.

It was a real-life crisis fueled by torrential rain that caused the Guadalupe River to overflow and endanger the lives of hundreds, particularly at Camp Mystic, a popular summer camp in Kerr County. As roads vanished beneath floodwaters and cabins became islands, panic spread among the campers and staff, most of whom were young children and senior volunteers. Emergency calls surged across all platforms, prompting an immediate multi-agency response. Ruskan, stationed in Corpus Christi, was called into action. Despite having never flown a rescue mission before, he boarded a helicopter with his team and headed straight into the storm. The conditions were brutal. Rain hammered the aircraft, visibility was limited, and floodwaters below showed no mercy. Yet, there was no hesitation in Ruskan’s actions. Once they arrived near the camp, he hit the ground running—literally.

He jumped from the aircraft into knee-deep water and began coordinating rescue efforts with remarkable composure. Ruskan worked tirelessly, helping evacuees into helicopters, organizing lift zones, and offering comfort to the terrified individuals clinging to hope. Kids clutched their camp counselors, parents shielded their infants from the rising waters, and elderly evacuees waded through currents—all under Ruskan’s careful guidance. Over the course of several hours, without pause for rest or relief, Ruskan helped evacuate 165 people to safety.

In later interviews, he downplayed his role, crediting the bravery of the counselors and the cooperation of the campers. According to him, the real heroes were the people who remained calm under pressure and followed instructions. Still, the public saw it differently. News of his heroics spread like wildfire across social media and news outlets. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem lauded his actions, describing them as a vivid example of selfless service and heroism in action.

People around the country called him a symbol of hope and resilience, a modern American hero who embodied the very best of what it means to serve. But for Ruskan, it wasn’t about recognition or praise. He remained humble throughout, stating simply, “I was just doing my job. You train for moments like this, but nothing prepares you for the emotional weight—seeing kids scared, watching families embrace after fearing the worst.” While his story captured the nation’s attention, the broader tragedy of the Central Texas floods continued to unfold. Officials reported dozens of deaths, hundreds of homes destroyed, and entire neighborhoods swallowed by floodwaters. Infrastructure was crippled, and rescue teams continued working around the clock to find the missing and aid the displaced. The danger wasn’t over either—authorities warned of additional risks due to saturated soil and the threat of more rain in the forecast. Amid all the destruction, however, stories like Ruskan’s offered a glimmer of hope. Survivors from Camp Mystic couldn’t say enough about the Coast Guard swimmer who remained calm, focused, and endlessly determined. In a time of chaos, he was a steady force who reminded everyone of what true heroism looks like. He may have gone into that mission as a rookie, but he emerged from it as a lifesaver, proving that one person can make a difference far beyond what they ever imagined. His courage on that day served as a beacon not just for the people he rescued, but for the entire country watching from afar. As emergency crews continue their work and communities begin the long road to recovery, Petty Officer Scott Ruskan’s first mission will be remembered as a triumph of the human spirit—165 lives saved, countless more inspired, and a legacy of heroism that began with a single leap into the flood.