Heroes emerge amid deadly Texas floods

KERRVILLE, Texas (CNN, KYMA/KECY) - Catastrophic flooding in Central Texas has left more than a hundred people dead, but that number could have been even higher without the bravery of everyday heroes and first responders.

Among them was a father who sacrificed his life to help his daughter cling to a tree until rescuers arrived.

In a devastated RV park, the owner described helping residents escape rising waters while her husband narrowly avoided drowning in the river.

Some survivors from local camps praised their counselors for acting quickly as floodwaters rose.

One Coast Guard rescue swimmer even gave up his own spot in a helicopter so more children from Camp Mystic could be airlifted to safety.

That swimmer says he was initially the only first responder on the ground when the camp needed help the most. He's now credited with helping save 165 children during the worst of the flooding.

As Central Texas begins the long recovery ahead, these acts of courage are a reminder that, even in disaster, the human spirit can shine through.