The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo announced today that U.S. Coast Guard Petty Officer Scott Ruskan will serve as the grand marshal of the 2026 Downtown Rodeo Parade. Ruskan is a rescue swimmer whose lifesaving actions during this year’s historic Independence Day flash floods in the Texas Hill Country earned national recognition.
Ruskan, 26, is known for his courageous efforts when he executed multiple high-risk rescues under extreme conditions, saving 165 children from raging waters. His actions earned him praise from top officials and spotlighted the critical role of Coast Guard rescue swimmers in disaster response. Ruskan continues to serve on active duty with the Coast Guard, where he supports search-and-rescue operations across the Gulf Coast.
“The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo proudly honors the men and women who protect our communities, often in the most dangerous situations imaginable,” said Chris Boleman, Rodeo president and CEO. “Petty Officer Ruskan represents courage, commitment and service at the highest level, and we are thrilled to welcome him as our 2026 grand marshal.”
Ruskan will officially launch the 2026 Rodeo season as the grand marshal of the Downtown Rodeo Parade, a beloved Houston tradition since 1938 that draws thousands to the city each year. This annual kickoff brings together colorful floats, mounted patrols, trail riders, marching bands and dedicated Rodeo volunteers for a vibrant celebration of Western heritage. Tens of thousands of spectators line the streets downtown, making it one of Houston’s most anticipated and unifying community events.
“It’s a huge honor to be invited to be the grand marshal,” said Ruskan. “It’s one of the largest events Texas has to offer, and I couldn’t be more grateful and honored to be there along with the other Coast Guard crews that were there on July 4.”
A native of New Jersey, Ruskan currently serves as a Coast Guard aviation survival technician based out of Air Station Corpus Christi, a role that requires elite training in emergency medical response, helicopter operations, and ocean and floodwater rescues. His story has been widely covered by national media and has brought attention to the lifesaving missions conducted by first responders across Texas.
Downtown Rodeo Parade Schedule
The Downtown Rodeo Parade marks the official start of the 2026 Rodeo season. Prior to the parade, participants can join the Rodeo Run, presented by ConocoPhillips.
Rodeo Run
9 AM — 10K Wheelchair
9:10 AM — 5K & 10K Corral A, 10K Timed
9:35 AM — 5K Timed
Parade
10 AM — Downtown Rodeo Parade begins
For more information, visit www.rodeohouston.com/parade