Texas is reeling after catastrophic floods swept through 15 counties, claiming at least 82 lives, including 28 children. Among the victims was Richard “Dick” Eastland, a beloved 74-year-old summer camp leader who died trying to save young campers from rising waters at Camp Mystic along the Guadalupe River.

On July 4, as flash floods engulfed the area, Eastland helped evacuate children from the Bubble Inn cabin. He was later found in his SUV with three girls he tried to rescue but sadly died en route to the hospital. He’s remembered as a father figure who dedicated his life to building faith and confidence in generations of young girls.

Camp Mystic, which Eastland and his wife Tweety had run since 1974, was hosting over 700 children when the disaster struck. While many made it to higher ground, dozens were initially reported missing. Search and rescue efforts are still ongoing.

In response, Governor Greg Abbott declared a state of disaster across the hardest-hit counties, pledging full state support and federal aid. Over 1,000 emergency responders are on the ground as communities struggle to recover from the deadly storms that began July 2.

Amid the devastation, Richard Eastland’s final act of courage stands as a symbol of quiet heroism in the face of overwhelming tragedy.