In early July 2025, Central Texas was ravaged by one of the most catastrophic flooding events in state history. Triggered by relentless rainfall and flash floods, over 130 lives were tragically lost, hundreds more were rescued, and entire communities like Kerrville were left in shock and ruin. Families were swept away in the night as rivers surged beyond their banks, erasing homes, livelihoods, and peace of mind. In the immediate aftermath, the Texas State Guard (State Defense Force) and National Guard deployed to conduct urgent rescue missions and begin early relief efforts, providing shelter, distributing emergency supplies, and coordinating with local, state and federal agencies.
Now, nearly a month later, recovery efforts remain in full force. The path to rebuilding will be long and arduous. Federal, state, and local agencies—including FEMA, the Salvation Army, and the Texas Department of Insurance—have established a Disaster Recovery Center at First Baptist Church in Kerrville, where families continue to seek help for flood-related damages. Emotional and psychological scars remain fresh as victims recount horrifying tales of narrow escapes and unimaginable loss. Volunteers and first responders, many still grappling with survivor’s guilt, receive ongoing counseling and support from clergy and crisis teams stationed in the region.
Among the most steadfast and impactful contributors to the ongoing recovery efforts has been the Texas State Guard. From conducting damage assessments and delivering essential supplies to helping manage donation centers, the Guard continues to provide vital assistance to affected communities. Their service has been widely praised, not just for the operational support they offer, but for the compassion and leadership shown by each service member.
The Texas State Guard’s role in Central Texas has ranged from logistics support to hands-on aid. In Kerrville and across the Hill Country, they’ve assisted in debris removal, tracked evacuees through the Emergency Tracking Network, and helped coordinate resource distribution through the Texas Division of Emergency Management and the Incident Support Task Force. Their collaboration with volunteer teams like TEXSAR has enhanced efficiency in donation management and community engagement.
However the emotional weight of the disaster remains heavy. A memorial wall in downtown Kerrville has become a focal point for mourning and remembrance. Children lay flowers; residents weep as helicopters fly overhead—reminders of the frantic days that followed the flooding. Even international support arrived, with Mexican firefighters joining the search efforts and leaving heartfelt symbols of solidarity near the riverbanks.
Texas State Guard Commander, Major General Roger Sheridan, has made multiple visits to the region to thank personnel for their efforts. During one such visit to a Kerrville warehouse, he observed ongoing operations and presented challenge coins to several outstanding Guardsmen, recognizing their exceptional service and leadership. In another visit, Maj. Gen. Sheridan and Command Sergeant Major Harlan Thompson met with members of the Guard’s Emergency Tracking Network team, whose behind-the-scenes work has quietly helped reunite families and manage the massive displacement of residents caused by the storm.
Major Philip Swyers of the Salvation Army has said they expect to remain in the region for up to two years. While the number of missing has dropped from over 160 to just a few, the landscape—both physical and emotional—remains devastated. Families are now transitioning from immediate survival to long-term recovery. Appliances, building materials, and financial assistance have replaced emergency meals and clothing as the primary needs.
As Texas lawmakers reconvene for a special session to address recovery funding and prevention measures for future disasters, the people of Central Texas press on. Their resilience is matched only by the dedication of those who continue to serve them—like the tireless service members of the Texas State Guard, who remain on the ground, out of the spotlight, but never out of mind.
Their work is not finished. But thanks to their efforts, neither is the hope for recovery.
The TEXSAR Community Support Team was out this weekend supporting some donation management. Team members led community volunteers from all over Kerr County and beyond. Thank you to everyone who came out to support this event.
A special thanks to Texas State Guard for working alongside our team and to Texas Division of Emergency Management and the Texas Incident Support Task Force for coordinating the efforts.
Community and collaboration
Meanwhile, over 50 TEXSAR volunteers continued the search a long the Guadalupe all weekend.
Texas State Guard personnel continue to operate across Central Texas, collaborating with partner agencies to support communities affected by recent disasters. Whether assessing damage or offering hands-on aid to those in need, their dedication to service remains strong and unwavering during this time of recovery.
Texas State Guard personnel remain on the ground across Central Texas, working alongside partner agencies to support communities recovering from recent disasters. From conducting damage assessments to distributing essential supplies, our service members are performing the kind of quiet, tireless work that often goes unnoticed—but never unappreciated.
The heartfelt thank you cards we’ve received serve as powerful reminders of how critical this support is—not just during a crisis, but long after the headlines fade.
To every member of the Texas State Guard continuing to go above and beyond: thank you for answering the call. Texans are stronger because of your service.
Texas State Guard members continue to demonstrate exceptional dedication, teamwork, and leadership in support of the July Weather Response in Central Texas.
A recent highlight was the visit by Texas State Guard Commander, Major General Roger Sheridan, to the Kerrville warehouse. During his visit, Maj. Gen. Sheridan toured the facility, observed operations firsthand, and engaged with service members on the ground.
He expressed his sincere appreciation for the Guard’s continued efforts, noting the gratitude of the State of Texas and its citizens. In recognition of exemplary service, Maj. Gen. Sheridan presented challenge coins to Sgt. Mounger, Pfc. Johnson, Pfc. Hammel, and Pvt. Mettlen—an honor reflecting their outstanding performance during this mission.
Maj. Gen. Roger Sheridan and Command Sgt. Maj. Harlan Thompson visited Texas State Guard Service Members serving on an Emergency Tracking Network (ETN) team, thanking them for their tireless work after recent severe storms.
These Service Members quietly connect families, track evacuees, and safeguard essential resources, helping communities recover faster.
In disaster response, it’s not just about logistics. It’s about people – and the Texas State Guard stands ready to serve!
Sources: Houston Public Media – Texas State Guard – Texas State Guard – Texas State Guard – TEXSAR
