A U.S. Coast Guard rescue swimmer is being hailed as a hero after saving 165 children stranded by sudden flooding in southeastern Texas.
The children were trapped on a school bus and nearby buildings in Chambers County after heavy rains caused flash floods. Roads were washed out, leaving no way in or out.
Petty Officer First Class Marcus Hill was lowered from a Coast Guard helicopter into the floodwaters. Fighting strong currents, he swam back and forth for hours, helping each child into a rescue basket to be lifted to safety.
“He just kept going, no matter how tough it got,” said the mission’s pilot, Lt. Sarah Adams.
Thanks to Hill’s efforts, all 165 children were rescued without major injuries. Parents and local leaders are calling for him to receive a national award.
Hill remained humble. “I just did what I was trained to do,” he said. “Those kids needed help.”
The Coast Guard plans to officially recognize his bravery in a ceremony later this month.
