Scott Ruskan, a 26-year-old U.S. Coast Guard rescue swimmer, is being celebrated nationwide for his heroic actions after saving 165 people during catastrophic flooding in Central Texas. It was his first-ever rescue mission.
Ruskan, originally from Oxford, New Jersey, was deployed to Camp Mystic—a girls’ summer camp overwhelmed by the flash floods caused by the Guadalupe River surging 26 feet in just one hour. The devastating floodwaters swept away homes, vehicles, and entire campsites.
Coast Guard Hero Leads Airlift and Emergency Response
Now stationed in Corpus Christi, Ruskan served not only as a rescue swimmer but also as the lead triage coordinator on-site. As 12 helicopters from the Coast Guard, National Guard, and U.S. Army airlifted stranded victims, Ruskan coordinated emergency medical care and oversaw evacuations.
“We noticed a large bunch of kids at a camping site and thought, ‘Awesome, that’s our destination,’” Ruskan said in an interview with Fox & Friends. “We’ve been working hand-in-hand with the Army and responding to large-scale triage sites like Camp Mystic.”
Thanks to his leadership and swift action, nearly all campers were safely evacuated.
From Accountant to Lifesaver
Before joining the Coast Guard, Ruskan earned a degree from Rider University in 2021 and worked as an accountant at KPMG. He enlisted later that year and graduated from the elite Aviation Survival Technician program in 2022, becoming a certified rescue swimmer.
Praise from Homeland Security and Across the Nation
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem praised Ruskan on social media, calling him “a hero of America.” She added, “His courage and commitment embody the mission of the U.S. Coast Guard.”
Texas Floods Leave Trail of Devastation
As the state continues recovery efforts, officials report that at least 80 people have died and many more remain missing following the historic floods.
FAQs
Who is Scott Ruskan?
A 26-year-old Coast Guard rescue swimmer who saved 165 people during the Texas floods—his first mission.
How does a Coast Guard rescue swimmer operate?
They carry out high-risk rescues and provide emergency medical support during disasters like floods or shipwrecks.
How many people died in the Texas floods?
At least 80 fatalities have been confirmed so far.
How can I help victims of the Texas floods?
You can donate to relief organizations like the Red Cross, World Central Kitchen, or local Texas disaster response funds.
