A dedicated group of firefighters and first responders from Mexico arrived in Texas over the weekend to assist in critical search and rescue operations following the catastrophic flooding of the Guadalupe River. This act of solidarity highlights the strong ties and unwavering support that exist between the two neighboring countries during times of crisis.
Ismael Aldaba, founder of Fundación 911 in Acuña, Mexico, expressed the sentiment of unity among firefighters, stating, “When it comes to firefighters, there’s no borders. There’s nothing that’ll prevent us from helping another firefighter, another family. It doesn’t matter where we’re at in the world. That’s the essence of our discipline and what we do.”
The volunteers from Fundación 911 are part of a select group that includes highly skilled search and rescue teams from California. These teams have responded to the recent flooding, which is being described as one of the deadliest in the United States in decades, with dozens still reported missing.
Under the command of the Mountain Home fire department and Texas state police, Fundación 911 is operating along the Guadalupe River while coordinating the arrival of additional reinforcements, including search and rescue canines from the Mexican state of Nuevo León. The team comprises 13 members who are well-acquainted with crisis response in flood zones, particularly those along the Rio Grande River.
Despite the ongoing tensions surrounding immigration policies, the message conveyed by these firefighters has been one of solidarity and collaboration. José Omar Llanas Hernández, one of the volunteers, expressed immense pride in his ability to serve communities and provide aid in rescue operations, regardless of the country.
His colleague, Jesús Gomez, a dual citizen of the US and Mexico, shared his enthusiasm, saying, “There are many firefighters with visas, and we thought, ‘Let’s just go and help.’ Sometimes people from the other side cross and help us. It’s time to give a little bit.”
Aldaba noted that the local community in Texas has been exceptionally welcoming to the Mexican team. In a recent social media post, Ronald Johnson, the US ambassador to Mexico, expressed gratitude toward the Mexican teams for their invaluable support. He stated, “The United States and Mexico are united, not only as neighbors but as family, especially in times of need.”
On the same day, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum commended the bravery of two Mexican individuals, Silvana Garza Valdez and María Paula Zárate. These women played a pivotal role in rescuing at least 20 girls from the floods at Camp Mystic, a Christian all-girls summer camp, where the waters claimed the lives of at least 27 campers and counselors.
In a heartwarming interview with the Mexican news outlet N Mas, Zárate recounted their harrowing experience: “We started writing their names, we put their badges on them, we told them to pack a bag with their things, with what they needed most, and if they had their favorite animal, to bring it.”
Aldaba emphasized the warm reception his team has received from their U.S. counterparts, stating, “We appreciate all the other guys that are here from different fire departments in Texas. Our team is well-prepared for disasters and has responded to various emergencies around the world. We chose to come and help our friends and ease their burden during this challenging time.” He added, “What we found here has been incredible.”
In conclusion, the collaborative efforts of Mexican firefighters and first responders in Texas serve as a powerful reminder of the strength of community and the importance of helping one another in times of need. Their unwavering dedication to serve, regardless of borders, exemplifies the spirit of resilience and unity that transcends national boundaries.
