A 26-year-old Coast Guard rescue swimmer is being hailed as an American hero after saving 165 lives during his first-ever mission—responding to the devastating Independence Day flash floods that ravaged Central Texas. Petty Officer Scott Ruskan, a former KPMG accountant from New Jersey, deployed to the flood-hit Camp Mystic, an all-girls Christian summer camp, where he played a key role in triaging and evacuating victims.
Ruskan’s heroism was spotlighted on Good Morning America and praised by the Department of Homeland Security. “This is what it’s all about, right? Like, this is why we do the job,” Ruskan told the New York Post, describing the mission that began early July 4 when he and his aircrew launched into action.
The deadly floods, which have claimed over 80 lives—including many children—hit Camp Mystic especially hard. Ruskan and his aircrew touched down amid chaos, where approximately 200 people required immediate evacuation. With limited helicopter capacity and only two landing zones, Ruskan chose to stay on the ground, freeing up space and becoming the lead figure in organizing the rescue.
He personally guided campers to safety, carrying multiple children at once and offering emotional support to terrified victims. Some asked if they could bring their stuffed animals; his reply: “Of course.”
“All these people are looking at you terrified with a 1,000-yard stare,” he recounted. “They want some sort of comfort, someone to save them.” Ruskan’s decision to remain on-site proved critical in coordinating the safe evacuation of all 165 individuals.
In a statement, the Department of Homeland Security praised Ruskan: “The extraordinary bravery and selfless service of Ruskan and his fellow first responders embody the very spirit of the United States Coast Guard and the best of what it means to be an American.”
