Overview
- During the address, President Trump announced the Legion of Merit for Ruskan’s “extraordinary heroism” in the Texas rescues.
- The speech featured a first-time reunion between Ruskan and 11-year-old survivor Milly Cate McClymond in the House chamber.
- Trump credited Ruskan with saving 165 people, saying he lifted Milly Cate and 164 others to safety.
- Reports recount that the July 4 flash floods in central Texas killed more than 130 people, including 27 campers and counselors at Camp Mystic.
- Ruskan, a U.S. Coast Guard Petty Officer 3rd Class and rescue swimmer, received a standing ovation as he was honored before Congress.