Veterans-Led Team Rubicon Mobilizes Rapid Relief Effort in Flood-Stricken Central Texas

In the wake of devastating flash flooding that has claimed the lives of at least 105 individuals and left many others unaccounted for in central Texas during the Fourth of July weekend, Team Rubicon, a disaster response organization led by veterans, has stepped in to support the affected communities. The organization has mobilized multiple reconnaissance teams and established a quick response force (QRF) in Kerrville to begin evaluating needs and organizing volunteers.

Team Rubicon CEO Art delaCruz, a retired Navy commander, stated, "We aim to be among the first on the scene and the last to depart." He emphasized that the group is working alongside local authorities and will adjust its mission as the waters recede, transitioning from search and rescue to recovery efforts.

Three reconnaissance teams, made up of local volunteers, are actively surveying the area for damage and relaying their findings to Team Rubicon’s command team. The upcoming stage, as delaCruz outlined, is expected to include the establishment of three forward operating bases, each staffed by approximately 30 volunteers tasked with debris removal, cleaning out flooded homes and buildings, and providing logistical support operations.

“All items that have been displaced downstream or are obstructing roadways can be addressed by our certified sawyers, who are ready to come in and cut trees. Additionally, we have heavy machinery available to clear debris or materials from the area,” he stated.

In response to a request from the Salvation Army, Team Rubicon’s Quick Response Force is actively involved in coordinating incoming volunteers and monitoring urgent service requests from those affected by the floods. DelaCruz highlighted that the organization's assistance focuses on the most at-risk groups, such as low-income families and individuals lacking flood insurance.

With a robust volunteer base exceeding 200,000 individuals, Team Rubicon boasts a significant number of military veterans among its ranks. The organization has a history of addressing emergencies such as wildfires in California and hurricanes in the Southeast, drawing on the logistical expertise and practical experience of its team members.

“They’re essentially in this race against mold and damage,” delaCruz emphasized, highlighting the critical nature of home cleanouts as they provide assistance without any expense to the homeowners. Team Rubicon is committed to taking all necessary actions.