The Texas State Guard & National Guard are still engaging in recovery efforts following the horrific floods that swept through Texas a few weeks ago. The Texas Military Department continues to provide critical support to devastated communities across Central Texas. Despite the passing of the initial crisis, recovery operations remain a massive undertaking, and the Texas State Guard has proven to be an unwavering presence in the fight to help Texans recover.
Over 100 lives were tragically lost during the widespread flooding that began in early July. In response, the Texas State Guard rapidly deployed personnel across affected regions, assisting in evacuation operations, conducting damage assessments, and providing direct aid to displaced and struggling families. Working in close coordination with the Texas Department of Emergency Management and other partner agencies, Texas State Guard members have become a cornerstone of the ongoing humanitarian response.
This past week, senior leadership from the Texas State Guard, including Commander Major General Roger Sheridan, Command Sergeant Major Harlan Thompson, and Chief of Staff Colonel Daniel McCarroll, visited Guardsmen deployed in the field to offer thanks and emphasize the essential role they continue to play. Their presence underscored the Guard’s commitment to not only mission success but to the well-being of its service members.
Among the units deployed, the Texas State Guard’s 1st Brigade has been particularly active. Guardsmen have partnered with local organizations like the Salvation Army in Kerrville, where they’ve supported food and supply distribution efforts, managed logistics, and participated in detailed damage assessments (iSTAT/pSTAT). Civilian Volunteers such as Chris Griswold were seen handing essential items to service members like Corporal Wayne Cox, reflecting the strong spirit of unity and collaboration that defines the relief mission.
In Kerrville, Guardsmen are also providing shuttle services, operating in General Support Units (GSUs), and supporting the State Operations Center (SOC). These operations ensure vital aid and resources are delivered where they are needed most. The impact of their work has been deeply felt, with community leaders at the Kerrville Kroc Center expressing heartfelt thanks for their tireless support, stating, “It has been an honor working with you!”
Even The Young Heroes of the Guard, the nonprofit arm of the Texas State Guard that typically focuses on holiday toy drives, joined the relief effort by delivering $220,000 worth of boots and socks to Kerr County flood victims—a reminder that support comes in many forms.
Amid the chaos and physical destruction, emotional strain has taken a toll on both residents and relief workers. Recognizing this need, Houston-based Angel PAWS pet therapy ministry brought therapy dogs to the Salvation Army in Kerrville to comfort everyone involved. “We knew that God wanted these dogs here, so we just came,” said Debbie Benningfield of Angel PAWS. The simple gesture of a dog’s nuzzle or tail wag offered a moment of peace and reassurance in a community still reeling from loss.
The Salvation Army has been overwhelmed by generous in-kind donations and is now seeking warehouse space to store the flood of supplies. For those still looking to help, officials note that financial contributions are the most impactful at this stage of the recovery.
The Texas National Guard & State Guard continue to support air and ground operations, prepared to respond to additional weather threats. Their valor was recognized by the Governor of Texas and the Chief of the National Guard Bureau, who also extended appreciation to the Czech Republic’s specialized rescue team for traveling overseas to assist Texas responders.
As the road to recovery continues, one thing is clear: the commitment of the Texas State Guard and its partner agencies remains strong. These service members exemplify the meaning of selfless service—bringing hope, stability, and relief to those in need.
StateDefenseForce.com proudly thanks the men and women of the Texas State Guard and National Guard for their continued service, dedication, and sacrifices. Texas Strong.
Texas State Guard service members remain on the ground across Central Texas, working in close coordination with partner agencies to deliver essential support to communities in need. From conducting detailed damage assessments to providing direct assistance to those impacted by recent disasters, their commitment to serving Texans during this critical time has been steadfast.
Members of the Texas State Guard are working tirelessly alongside the Texas Department of Emergency Management and partner agencies across Central Texas, delivering vital support to communities impacted by this devastating disaster and conducting damage assessments. Our thoughts and prayers are with all those affected. We stand with you, Texas.
Texas State Guardsmen from 1st Brigade work alongside the Salvation Army Kerrville, volunteers, and partner organizations to provide relief and support to flood-affected communities, a united effort to bring hope, help, and healing to Texans in need. Service members from across the state are deployed to support the State Operations Center (SOC), serve in General Support Units (GSUs) for critical logistics, and shuttle operations, and participate on Damage Assessment Teams (iSTAT/pSTAT).
Texas State Guard service members continue to provide critical support across Central Texas in coordination with other State partner agencies. From conducting damage assessments to assisting impacted communities, their dedication remains unwavering.
This week, TXSG Commander Maj. Gen. Roger Sheridan, Command Sgt. Maj. Harlan Thompson, Chief of Staff Col. Daniel McCarroll and other senior leaders visited Guard members on the ground to thank them for their tireless service and to emphasize the vital role they play in the region’s recovery.
Our hearts remain with all those affected. Texas, we stand with you.
The Texas National Guard remains ready to respond with our partner agencies on the ground and in the air as Texas prepares for more severe weather.
The Governor of Texas and the Chief of the National Guard Bureau recognized Texas National Guard troops in Kerrville, TX for their courageous search and rescue operations during the recent floods. They also expressed deep appreciation to the Czech Republic’s specialized rescue team for traveling across the globe to support recovery efforts alongside their Texas partners.
Loading up $220K worth of boots and socks—headed to the Kerr County.
We’re doing everything we can to support the flood victims. Every bit helps.
On July 8, 2025, the University of St. Thomas Veteran’s Success Center received 153 toys valued at $5,000 from Chief Warrant Officer 2 Gregory Illich, 2nd Brigade, Texas State Guard. The toys will be delivered on Friday, July 10, to children in the Kerrville area, which was recently devastated by flash flooding.
The Veteran’s Success Center has partnered with the Archdiocese of San Antonio and Notre Dame Catholic Church in Kerrville to support families in need. While many community members have donated essentials such as water, food, and clothing, staff at the Center identified a gap: toys for children who have lost everything.
CWO2 Illich, a University of St. Thomas alumnus and the Toy Drive Officer in Charge, organized the donation. “Having lost everything after a hurricane when I was five, I know the value of play and entertainment in helping children recover from trauma and stress,” he said.
The donation was part of the Young Heroes of the Guard Toy Drive, and included items such as arts and crafts kits, sports equipment, puzzles, games, dolls, and toy trucks generously provided by the Hess Corporation.
Sources: Texas State Guard – Texas State Guard – Texas Military Department – Young Heroes of The Guard
