Texas Southern University Graduate Honored for Heroic Flood Rescue with U.S. Coast Guard
By When disaster struck the Texas Hill Country this Independence Day, the United States Coast Guard responded with swift, fearless action. Among the heroes who answered the call was Lieutenant Blair O. Ogujiofor, a proud graduate of Texas Southern University, whose exceptional courage during a life-threatening rescue mission has earned national recognition, and admiration from her alma mater and beyond.
The July 4th flash flooding at Camp Mystic, caused by the Guadalupe River rising an astonishing 26 feet in just 45 minutes, left more than 200 campers stranded in rapidly deteriorating conditions. As cabins were swept away and emergency responders scrambled, the Coast Guard’s aircrew leapt into action.
In a ceremony held in Kerrville, Texas, Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem presented medals to four Coast Guard members whose bravery was instrumental in the success of the mission. Lt. Blair O. Ogujiofor received the prestigious Air Medal, a testament to her decisive role as co-pilot aboard MH-65E helicopter 6553, the very first Coast Guard aircraft to reach the disaster zone.
“She expertly coordinated all communications, aerial deconfliction, and obstacle avoidance,” Noem stated, “while leading a formation of two medevac helicopters through narrow valleys with limited visibility.”
Her leadership didn’t stop once the aircraft was airborne. After three tense attempts to reach survivors, she successfully landed the helicopter and then managed flight paths for 12 other helicopters in the immediate area, ensuring a safe and organized evacuation under extreme pressure.
Lt. Ogujiofor’s achievements stand as a powerful example of the courage, skill, and leadership that define today’s Coast Guard officers. Her award not only honors her bravery during a life-threatening mission, but also reflects the caliber of professionals rising through the ranks, ready to serve, lead, and take action when lives are on the line.
