Coast Guard Petty Officer Scott Ruskan from NJ has been hailed an "American hero" for rescuing those in the Texas floods. Here's what to know.

Scott Ruskan, a 26-year-old rescue swimmer with the U.S. Coast Guard, is being applauded as an "American hero" after his first mission saw him save 165 people affected by the flash floods in Texas. Newsweek reached out to Ruskan via social media message for comment outside of regular working hours.

Petty Officer 3rd Class Scott Ruskan, 26, a helicopter crew member, braved the dangerous waters to rescue dozens, according to U.S. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem. “Scott Ruskin [sic] is an American hero. His selfless courage embodies the spirit and mission of the U.S. Coast Guard,” Noem wrote on Facebook.