Coast Guard Swimmer Saves 165 on First Ever Rescue Mission

When 11-year-old Milly Cate McClymond closed her eyes and prayed as Texas floodwaters threatened to sweep her away, she thought her life was ending. Then a helicopter appeared above, and Coast Guard rescue swimmer Scott Ruskan descended to pull her to safety.

It was Ruskan's first ever rescue mission. Over the course of that day last July, he would save 165 lives.

Heavy rainfall caused the Guadalupe River to swell dramatically, creating deadly floods that killed more than 130 people in the area. Among the victims were 28 campers and counselors at Camp Mystic, where young Milly had been staying.

President Donald Trump presented Ruskan with the Legion of Merit during his State of the Union address on Tuesday, reuniting the rescue swimmer with Milly in an emotional moment. "Petty Officer Ruskan, I'm pleased to inform you that I am now awarding you the Legion of Merit for extraordinary heroism," Trump said.

The recognition comes on top of the Distinguished Flying Cross for heroism that Ruskan received shortly after the floods, along with medals for his three fellow aircrew members. The co-pilot and aviation maintenance technician received Air Medals for their crucial roles in the rescue operation.

Why This Inspires

Ruskan's success on that critical first mission makes his story even more remarkable. He had previously failed the rigorous training course at the Coast Guard's Aviation Survival Technician school on his first attempt.

One particular rescue technique involving a panicked swimmer gave him trouble. Ruskan failed that specific test three times in a row, struggling to master the skills needed to save lives in chaotic conditions.

But he didn't give up. When Ruskan returned for his second attempt at the course, he aced it.

That persistence paid off when 165 people needed him most.

Sometimes the heroes who save us are the ones who refused to quit on themselves first.