DFCS Members in the news
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Heroes can be hard to find.
But today, we found one.
Feb 24, 2026
"There’s an oft quoted axiom that goes something like, it only takes one black swan to know that they exist.
The meaning behind the swan-quote is that people, over time, assume that all swans are white. But it takes just one black one to prove otherwise. And when that ‘one’ is identified, they’re unforgettable.
What’s that mean for this story? Hold that thought.
Today, 24 February, 2026, CAPT Royce Williams, a U.S. Navy fighter pilot of two wars, has just been awarded America’s highest military award - the Medal of Honor.
Much has been written/produced about the man’s extraordinary combat action on 18 November, 1952. Rightly so. It’s one hell of a war story! For 35+ minutes, Royce fought for his life, alone, in a comparatively obsolete fighter plane against seven superior machines, flown by the Soviet Union’s finest.
It was life or death moment for this kid from Wilmot, South Dakota who, up until then, was just another naval aviator who swore an oath to protect his country."
Coast Guard mourns the loss of Rescue Swimmer
AST2 Tyler Jaggers
The Coast Guard mourns the passing, and honors the courage, of Aviation Survival Technician (AST) Tyler Jaggers. On February 27, he was critically injured during a medical evacuation mission offshore from Cape Flattery, Washington, and later succumbed to his injuries and passed away at Madigan Army Medical Center.
Prior to his passing, he was meritoriously advanced to AST2 for his relentless drive in qualifications, the mentorship he consistently provided to swimmer candidates, and his exceptional performance across operational missions. Additionally, the Commandant of the Coast Guard awarded him the Distinguished Flying Cross – one of our Nation’s highest awards for heroism in aerial flight.
Through his selfless service and sacrifice, AST2 Jaggers exemplified the finest legacies of Coast Guard service, and the sacred oath of the Aviation Rescue Swimmer community: "So Others May Live".
The Coast Guard Aviation Association
Department of Homeland Security
AST2 Ruskan Receives Legion of Merit During 2026 State of the Union Address
Lt Ian Hopper, LT Blair Ogujiofor, AMT2 Seth Reeves and AST2 Scott Ruskan were all recognized by Homeland Security Secretary Noem for their heroic efforts to reach the Kerrville Texas floods and then rescue 165 people from the flood ravaged area.
On February 24, 2026, Coast Guard AST2 Scott Ruskan was back in the national spotlight when the President awarded him the Legion of Merit at the 2026 State of the Union for his rescue of 165 people in July 2025.
