[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 119 (Thursday, July 10, 2025)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E660]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




              HONORING THE BRAVERY OF THE U.S. COAST GUARD

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. MICHAEL CLOUD

                               of texas-

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, July 10, 2025

  Mr. CLOUD. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the extraordinary 
bravery and service demonstrated in response to the devastating 
flooding across Central Texas.
  Over the past several days, catastrophic flooding along the Guadalupe 
and Colorado Rivers has shaken communities across the Texas Hill 
Country. Lives have been lost, others are still missing, and boots 
remain on the ground--searching, rescuing, and doing everything 
possible to bring families back together.
  On July 4, 2025, as the floodwaters surged near Hunt, Texas, the 
United States Coast Guard launched a rescue crew out of Air Station 
Corpus Christi at 5:30 a.m. Despite severe weather and three aborted 
attempts, the crew aboard an MH-65 Dolphin helicopter pushed through.
  That crew--Aircraft Commander Lieutenant Ian Hopper, Co-Pilot 
Lieutenant Blair Ogujiofor, Flight Mechanic Petty Officer Seth Reeves, 
and Rescue Swimmer Petty Officer Scott Ruskan--is a team of American 
heroes who carried out one of the most consequential rescue operations 
this country has ever seen.
  Petty Officer Ruskan was lowered into the flood zone and coordinated 
rescues for more than three hours, working with state, local, and 
military partners across three landing zones. In his first rescue 
mission, he helped save 165 lives--15 of whom were airlifted directly 
by the Coast Guard crew.
  This mission was one part of a larger operation, powered by 54 Coast 
Guard personnel rotating day and night to keep rescue efforts moving 
across the region. Every hour, lives are being saved by men and women 
who step into harm's way so others can make it home. In the face of 
tragedy, we're reminded of what makes this country strong: 
selflessness, courage, and Americans willing to step into danger to 
protect others.
  Texans are known for their resilience, but no one overcomes disaster 
alone. I thank every Coast Guardsman, first responder, and local 
official who acted swiftly and selflessly to help their neighbors.
  May God strengthen those still searching, comfort those who mourn, 
and bless the brave men and women who ran toward the rising waters.
  God bless Texas, and God bless the United States of America.

                          ____________________