As catastrophic flooding swept across parts of southeast Texas this spring, one man stood out amid the chaos—risking his life over and over again to bring others to safety. In the face of rising waters and dangerous conditions, a single Coast Guard rescue swimmer saved 165 people in a mission that has earned national attention and heartfelt praise.
Floodwaters Turn Communities into Crisis Zones
In May, relentless rain caused widespread flooding in counties like Harris, Liberty, and Montgomery, leaving residents stranded in homes and on rooftops. Roads became rivers, and emergency services were stretched to the limit.
The U.S. Coast Guard launched a large-scale aerial rescue operation. Among the crews dispatched was Aviation Survival Technician 2nd Class Luis Ramirez, who quickly became the central figure in a series of daring rescues.
According to FOX 7 Austin, Ramirez operated aboard an MH-60 Jayhawk helicopter, which was deployed to the hardest-hit areas. His role: to be lowered from the aircraft into flooded zones and search for those in immediate danger.
In and Out of the Water—Dozens of Times
Ramirez’s task was anything but routine. Lowered into turbulent waters multiple times, he swam through flooded streets, navigated submerged homes, and carefully extracted people—many of whom were children, elderly, or had mobility challenges.
In one mission alone, he helped airlift 37 individuals from a flooded subdivision. In another, he moved door-to-door, searching for residents who hadn’t been able to evacuate. Through all of this, Ramirez maintained calm under pressure and worked relentlessly, ensuring that every person he found was safely hoisted into the helicopter above.
When the final count was tallied, Ramirez had directly assisted in rescuing 165 people over the course of multiple missions.
Recognition from Leadership and the Nation
Lieutenant Commander Keith Ropella, the aircraft commander who flew several of those missions, praised Ramirez’s resolve and focus. “He never hesitated, no matter how bad the conditions got,” said Ropella. “His endurance and mindset were critical to getting these people out safely.”
The Coast Guard formally recognized Ramirez’s efforts, applauding his courage and quick thinking. His actions have since been shared widely across media and social platforms.
Among those who acknowledged the heroic effort was South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem, who posted on social media to commend the mission. She noted the importance of having strong emergency response teams and praised Ramirez as an example of the quiet strength that defines military service.
Ramirez, however, was humble in response. “It was a team effort,” he said, crediting the helicopter crew, flight mechanics, and operations staff for their flawless coordination under extreme pressure.
A Reminder of What One Person Can Do
Natural disasters often reveal the strength of a community — and sometimes, the extraordinary resolve of individuals. Ramirez’s rescue missions are a powerful reminder of what courage, training, and compassion can achieve.
As the floodwaters recede and rebuilding begins, the story of this Coast Guard swimmer will remain etched in the memories of those he saved—and serve as inspiration for others facing their own rising waters.