Commending the Coast Guard, Air Station Corpus Christi, and the crew of CG-6553 for their heroic efforts and courageous response to the catastrophic flooding across central Texas.
- Bill Number
- H.Res. 618
- Origin Chamber
- House
- Congress
- 119th Congress, Session 1
- Policy Area
- Transportation and Public Works
- Status
- Introduced
- Latest Action
- 2025-07-30: Referred to the Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation.
- Last Updated
- 2026-04-07T10:31:49Z
AI-Generated Summary
Purpose
This House Resolution (H. Res. 618) aims to formally recognize and praise the U.S. Coast Guard, specifically Air Station Corpus Christi and the crew of helicopter CG-6553, for their brave and effective actions during severe flooding in central Texas in July 2025. It highlights their role in search and rescue operations that saved many lives amid a natural disaster.
Key Provisions
- Background on the Disaster: Describes how heavy rains on July 4, 2025, caused rapid flooding in the Texas Hill Country, particularly along the Guadalupe and Colorado Rivers, leading to tragic deaths and endangering thousands. Notes extreme rainfall (nearly 12 inches) that caused rivers to rise over 26 feet in 45 minutes.
- Coast Guard's Response: Details the launch of CG-6553 at 5:30 a.m., crewed by Lieutenant Ian Hopper (aircraft commander), Lieutenant Blair Ogujiofor (copilot), AMT3 Seth Reeves (flight mechanic), and AST3 Scott Ruskan (rescue swimmer). Despite dangerous weather causing three failed landing attempts, they succeeded on the fourth, using special radar to guide other helicopters.
- Specific Heroic Actions:
- AST3 Ruskan was the first responder on site at Camp Mystic, coordinating rescues for over three hours and helping save 165 people across three landing zones with local, state, and military teams.
- The rest of the crew airlifted 15 people using their MH-65 Dolphin helicopter.
- Broader Efforts: The Coast Guard deployed 54 personnel, 8 MH-65 helicopters, and 2 HC-144 fixed-wing aircraft from stations in Corpus Christi, Houston, and Miami for ongoing operations.
- Resolution Clauses:
- Commends the Coast Guard for its quick and courageous response.
- Expresses deep thanks to the Coast Guard members who risked their lives to save hundreds.
- Extends gratitude to all federal, state, local first responders, and volunteers aiding Texas.
Significant Changes to Existing Law
None. This is a non-binding resolution, meaning it expresses the House's opinion and does not create, amend, or repeal any laws. It was introduced on July 29, 2025, and referred to the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure.
Potential Impacts
- On Government Agencies: Provides symbolic recognition that could boost morale among Coast Guard personnel and highlight their role in disaster response, potentially supporting future funding or resource requests for emergency operations.
- On Citizens: Offers emotional support and validation to flood victims and their communities in Texas by acknowledging the heroism that saved lives, fostering a sense of national solidarity.
- On International Relations: No direct impact, as this is a domestic commendation focused on U.S. events.
Main Stakeholders Affected
- U.S. Coast Guard: Primary recipients of praise, including specific crew members and Air Station Corpus Christi, emphasizing their dedication.
- Texas Residents and Communities: Those affected by the flooding in areas like Kerrville, Hunt, Comfort, and Camp Mystic, who benefited from the rescues.
- First Responders and Volunteers: Federal, state, and local teams involved in the response, who receive broader thanks.
- Members of Congress: Bipartisan cosponsors (primarily from Texas, with some from Louisiana and New York) demonstrate unified support for disaster relief efforts.
Notable Legal, Constitutional, or Political Implications
- Legal/Constitutional: No enforceable effects; resolutions like this are ceremonial and do not require presidential approval or alter the Constitution. They align with Congress's power to oversee and support federal agencies like the Coast Guard.
- Political: Shows cross-party collaboration (e.g., Democrats and Republicans from Texas cosponsoring), which could strengthen political ties in disaster-prone regions. It underscores the federal government's role in state emergencies, potentially influencing public perception of intergovernmental cooperation without partisan debate.
This summary was generated by AI and may contain inaccuracies. Refer to the official source document for the authoritative text.
Sponsor
Cosponsors (17)
Rep. Crenshaw, Dan [R-TX-2], Rep. Graves, Sam [R-MO-6], Rep. Williams, Roger [R-TX-25], Rep. Fletcher, Lizzie [D-TX-7], Rep. Lawler, Michael [R-NY-17], Rep. Johnson, Julie [D-TX-32], Rep. Gonzales, Tony [R-TX-23], Rep. Carter, John R. [R-TX-31], Rep. McCaul, Michael T. [R-TX-10], Rep. Higgins, Clay [R-LA-3], Rep. Babin, Brian [R-TX-36], Rep. Cuellar, Henry [D-TX-28], Rep. Green, Al [D-TX-9], Rep. Veasey, Marc A. [D-TX-33], Rep. Crockett, Jasmine [D-TX-30], Rep. Garcia, Sylvia R. [D-TX-29], Rep. Gonzalez, Vicente [D-TX-34]
Recent Actions
- 2025-07-30: Referred to the Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation.
- 2025-07-29: Referred to the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure.
- 2025-07-29: Submitted in House
- 2025-07-29: Submitted in House
Bill Versions
- Commending the Coast Guard, Air Station Corpus Christi, and the crew of CG–6553 for their heroic efforts and courageous response to the catastrophic flooding across central Texas. — issued 2025-07-29 — PDF (4 pages)