New Mexico Army National Guard rescues Ruidoso residents from floodwaters

RUIDOSO, N.M. (KRQE) – Several soldiers in the New Mexico Army National Guard rescued four elderly Ruidoso residents from a flash flood on Saturday.

Six soldiers were moving heavy equipment out of a creek near homes located on the South Fork burn scar when four people signaled them in distress.

Four of the soldiers created safety lines out of ratchet straps. The other two crossed the rising water toward those who were stranded.

The two carried all four elderly people to safety on higher ground. Just a few minutes later, the water level reached more than 6 feet high.

I’m proud of our Soldiers for acting so quickly to save lives in what was a dangerous situation. This is what we train for and have a lot of experience in. I’m just thankful we were there to help our fellow New Mexicans in their time of need.

Maj. Gen. Miguel Aguilar, the NM National Guard’s Adjutant General

Also, on Sunday, the military has been using light-medium tactical vehicles for swift water rescues. The New Mexico National Guard says the rescued a total of 100 people.

The Village of Ruidoso also warns residents of more flash flooding in the area, even issuing an evacuation.

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