U.S. Coast Guard Swimmer Rescues 165 Lives Amid Texas Flood
In a heroic act, a U.S. Coast Guard swimmer, Scott Laskan, has been recognized for saving 165 individuals during a devastating flood at Camp Mystic in central Texas.
On July 4th, Laskan, 26, was on duty at the Coast Guard air station in Corpus Christi when he received an urgent call regarding the situation. His commendable efforts earned him the title of “American hero” from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) on Monday.
“As catastrophic floods ravaged central Texas, Scott Laskan and his Coast Guard team bravely answered the call to duty without a second thought,” stated the DHS. “Their extraordinary bravery exemplifies the essence of the Coast Guard and what it truly means to be American.”
Laskan, originally from New Jersey, described the night he was called to action. In a candid moment during a segment on Good Morning America, he mentioned, “I just happened to be working that day.”
Flights from Corpus Christi to Hunt typically take about an hour, but due to “some rather serious weather,” Laskan noted that this particular flight extended to “7-8 hours.”
“We decided to leave me at Camp Mystic. It served as our main triage site,” he said, recalling how this decision helped to facilitate more efficient rescues.
While on the ground, he encountered mainly children, many frightened and cold, and he later remarked that it might have been the worst day of their lives.
Working closely with members of the U.S. Army National Guard, Laskan orchestrated safe landings for the evacuees. He shared that they set up two landing zones: one at the archery field and another on the football field.
“We had rescue helicopters land in our 60s. I took on a more significant role in getting people out,” he stated.
Laskan felt a profound responsibility, stating, “I really relied on the training we get. Coast Guard rescue swimmers have the highest level of training in the world…” He underscored how vital his skills were, especially as the children depended on his expertise.
“They didn’t know my experience or rank. They just saw me as someone there to help,” he expressed, highlighting the pressure to meet their expectations.
“They were heroic, navigating some of the worst moments of their lives and still finding the strength to carry on,” he said.
Tragically, it was reported that 27 campers and counselors lost their lives in the flood. The organization expressed deep sorrow, saying, “Our hearts are broken for the families enduring this unimaginable tragedy, and we continuously pray for them.”
As of July 9th, at least 119 fatalities have been confirmed, with over 170 individuals still unaccounted for amidst the ongoing crisis in central Texas.
