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A teenage survivor from Camp Mystic described the terror as floodwaters ripped through the Texas Hill Country. Callie McAlary, 16, shared her experience of the deadly Fourth of July floods that killed dozens. She recalled lightning strikes near cabins before water surged through the camp without warning. Her cabin stayed dry, but others weren’t so lucky.
Callie explained how campers scrambled to safety as the river swallowed buildings. Her mother, Tara Bradburn, praised the camp’s owners for their dedication to the children. She emphasized their trust in the Eastland family to protect kids through faith-centered values. The family’s Mystic ideals aimed to build character in young Texans.
Meanwhile, nearby Mo-Ranch camp avoided tragedy by evacuating 70 people early. Staff monitored rising waters themselves after receiving no official flood warnings. Their quick action moved children to higher ground just in time. Mo-Ranch’s president later contacted every parent to confirm their kids’ safety.
Tragically, Camp Mystic confirmed 27 campers and counselors perished in the disaster. Rescue teams continued searching for missing girls days later. The flash floods killed over 80 people across the region overall. Campsites along the Guadalupe River took the hardest hit.
Mo-Ranch’s communications director credited their vigilance for saving lives. She described aluminum kayaks twisted “like pretzels” by the water’s force. Though their buildings suffered damage, she stressed losing children would’ve been unimaginable. The camp now focuses on aiding other flooded facilities.
The Eastland family who ran Camp Mystic are devastated but honored for their efforts. Tara Bradburn remains grateful they saved her daughter despite the catastrophe. She highlighted how the camp fostered Texas roots and personal growth for kids. Their Christian values defined the Mystic experience.
This disaster shows why preparedness matters more than government warnings. Mo-Ranch proved ordinary Americans can protect themselves through watchfulness. Their staff’s responsible actions avoided the heartbreak others endured. Common sense beats bureaucracy every time.
Texas communities will rebuild with the grit that defines our great state. Faith and resilience will carry these families forward after such loss. We stand with all patriots affected by this tragedy.
