In the wake of devastating floods in Central Texas, a U.S. Coast Guard rescue swimmer from New Jersey is being hailed as a hero after saving the lives of 165 individuals. Scott Ruskan, a petty officer and rescue swimmer from Oxford Township in Warren County, played a key role in one of the largest emergency airlift operations during this disaster, marking his first-ever rescue mission.
The catastrophic weather event unfolded after relentless rains inundated Central Texas, causing the Guadalupe River to surge more than 20 feet above normal levels. Flash flooding struck without warning, trapping hundreds in homes, vehicles, and even in remote outdoor areas. Emergency response teams from across the country were mobilized to assist, but it was the swift and daring efforts of Ruskan and his crew that saved dozens from imminent danger.
Ruskan gave credit to the U.S. Coast Guard flight crew, who navigated treacherous skies and torrential conditions to reach flood victims as quickly as possible. Their helicopter, battling fierce winds and near-zero visibility, made several trips to and from impacted zones. According to mission logs, they were able to airlift over 160 individuals from rooftops, tree branches, vehicles submerged in water, and collapsed structures.
The scope of the flooding has shocked emergency responders. State officials confirmed that at least 80 people have died in connection with the disaster, and dozens more remain unaccounted for. The governor of Texas described the event as one of the worst natural disasters the state has faced in recent decades. Many of the deceased were swept away by fast-moving currents, while others were trapped when bridges collapsed or vehicles were washed off roadways.
Tragically, a summer camp located near the river became a focal point of heartbreak, as it was confirmed that 27 campers and counselors lost their lives in the disaster. The camp, which had been operating for decades without incident, reportedly had just minutes to respond before water levels overwhelmed their location. Survivors described scenes of chaos and panic as staff members tried to evacuate children amidst rising waters.
Scott Ruskan’s heroic actions have drawn praise not just from his local New Jersey community but also from national figures. Officials from the U.S. Coast Guard commended his courage and quick response during a high-risk mission. His hometown has expressed pride, noting that his bravery exemplifies the dedication of service members during times of crisis.
For Ruskan, the mission was both deeply personal and a stark introduction to the realities of disaster response. Trained extensively for high-risk water rescues, he had waited for the moment he might be called into action. He now carries the memory of lives saved—and lives lost—into future missions.
While the region continues recovery efforts, residents remain on edge with more storms predicted. Emergency teams remain deployed throughout flood-prone areas, and evacuation centers have been established to house the displaced. Recovery and identification efforts are still ongoing, with federal support beginning to arrive.
In the midst of tragedy, the actions of individuals like Scott Ruskan stand out as powerful reminders of courage and duty. As Central Texas mourns its losses and begins the long road to rebuilding, stories of rescue and resilience continue to emerge from the floodwaters. Ruskan’s first mission will not be forgotten, especially by those whose lives he helped save from the deadly surge of the Guadalupe River.
