A New Jersey-based Coast Guard rescue swimmer is being hailed as a hero after saving nearly 200 people during the deadly flash floods that recently devastated parts of Texas, leaving at least 68 people dead.
Petty Officer 2nd Class Tyler Rehm, stationed with Air Station Atlantic City, was deployed to Texas as part of a multi-state emergency response to the catastrophic flooding that struck the Texas Hill Country and surrounding areas. Using a rescue basket and harness, Rehm was lowered from helicopters into raging floodwaters to pull stranded residents, including children and elderly individuals, to safety.
“It’s what we train for, and I’m grateful we could help so many people get to safety,” Rehm said, describing the intense conditions that included swift currents, debris, and strong winds.
The recent floods followed days of heavy rain that caused rivers to rise rapidly, washing away homes, vehicles, and infrastructure, and forcing emergency evacuations across multiple counties. Hundreds of people have been rescued by combined Coast Guard, National Guard, and local emergency teams, with helicopters playing a critical role in reaching those trapped by the sudden flooding.
Officials have praised Rehm’s actions, noting that his swift and tireless efforts directly saved lives during one of the worst flood disasters in the state’s history.
With input from Fox News
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