Episode 257.1 Kerr County, TX Rescue Efforts (7 of 7) - Scott Ruskan USCG Rescue Swimmer #1096, credited for helping rescue 165 people from Camp Mystic

In this episode of The Real ResQ Podcast — the seventh of seven episodes highlighting the rescue efforts during the Kerr County, Texas Floods of July 4th, 2025 — host Jason Quinn sits down with Scott Ruskan, United States Coast Guard Rescue Swimmer #1096.Ruskan shares his remarkable journey from growing up in New Jersey to finding himself at the center of a catastrophic flood rescue operation that would test his training and resolve.Ruskan walks us through the rigors of rescue swimmer training, the challenges that shaped him along the way, and the moment the call came on July 4th that would launch the first rescue missions of his career. One where he is credited for helping rescue 165 people from Camp Mystic. He reflects on the teamwork, leadership, and adaptability required to operate in extreme conditions, where rapidly changing environments and limited information forced critical decisions in real time.He dives deep into the realities of the rescue itself—navigating chaotic airspace, making split-second decisions on the ground, and performing effective triage under pressure. We the emotional toll of the mission, the importance of staying calm amid chaos, and the responsibility that comes with being the last line of help for a devastated community.Ruskan also reflects on the lessons learned, the personal and professional impact of the operation, and the recognition received for the crew’s efforts—underscoring the importance of preparation, resilience, and camaraderie in high-stakes rescue work.This episode offers an honest, powerful look into what it takes to answer the call when everything is on the line—and the lasting impact those moments leave behind.Enjoy.This episode is powered by Vertical HeliCASTS.Thank you for sponsoring this episode of The Real ResQ: Axnes, Breeze-Eastern, ReadyBAR and The Real ResQ Store.Follow The Real ResQ on Facebook and Instagram and listen on Vertical HeliCASTS.Read more in MensHealth