TIPSLIFEHACKS

In a remarkable display of courage and quick thinking, staff at Camp La Junta, an all-boys camp in Texas, are being lauded as heroes after successfully rescuing hundreds of campers from rapidly rising floodwaters. The dramatic events unfolded on the early morning of July 4th, transforming what should have been a celebratory holiday into a harrowing ordeal.

Eleven-year-old Beau Brown recounts being abruptly awakened by a counselor around 4:00 AM. Led outside into the inky darkness, Beau was confronted with a startling sight – the normally tranquil landscape was being overtaken by floodwaters. The swift current and sheer volume of water were immediately alarming, signaling a crisis that required immediate action.

Camp director, Mark Dohman, described the situation as rapidly escalating. “We knew we had a significant flood risk, but the speed at which the water rose was unprecedented,” he stated. The camp, located on the banks of the Pecan Bayou, had experienced flash flood warnings, but the severity of the situation quickly exceeded expectations. Dohman and his team immediately initiated their emergency flood plan, a meticulously crafted protocol designed to ensure the safety of all campers and staff.

The plan involved swiftly evacuating the boys to the highest points within the camp – the rafters of the dining hall and other sturdy buildings. Campers, ranging in age from 8 to 16, were organized and moved with remarkable efficiency, a testament to the staff’s training and preparedness. Counselors stayed with their groups, providing reassurance and maintaining order amidst the chaos. The upper levels of the structures became temporary refuges, offering a precarious but vital vantage point above the surging waters.

“The counselors were incredible,” Beau's mother, Sarah Brown, shared. “They kept the boys calm and distracted them with stories and games. It was truly remarkable how they handled the situation.” The staff’s ability to maintain a sense of normalcy and provide emotional support was crucial in mitigating panic and ensuring the campers’ well-being.

As the floodwaters continued to rise, rescue teams from local emergency services arrived on the scene. The challenging conditions – including darkness and the treacherous current – made the rescue operation complex. However, the camp staff’s knowledge of the terrain and their ongoing communication with the rescue teams proved invaluable. Campers were gradually transported to safety via inflatable boats and helicopters, a painstaking process that continued throughout the morning.

By the time the floodwaters began to recede, over 300 boys and 75 staff members had been safely evacuated. While shaken, remarkably, there were no serious injuries reported. The incident serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of emergency preparedness and the dedication of those who work tirelessly to protect young people. The staff at Camp La Junta’s selfless actions have undoubtedly saved lives and earned them the gratitude of countless families. The camp is currently assessing the damage and plans to reopen as soon as possible, with enhanced flood mitigation measures in place.

This heroic rescue highlights the critical role that well-trained staff play in ensuring the safety of children in outdoor settings. It also underscores the need for ongoing vigilance and proactive planning in the face of increasingly unpredictable weather patterns.