This one hits even closer to home,” said Jonathan McComb, who tragically lost his wife and two children in the 2015 Wimberly, Texas flood.
A man who lost his entire family in a flood ten years ago is now volunteering to assist in finding victims of the recent Texas flooding.
Jonathan McComb’s wife, Laura, and their two kids, Leighton and Andrew, were among thirteen people who died when floodwaters devastated Wimberly, Texas in 2015, according to reports from USA Today and ABC affiliate WFAA.
McComb recounted to USA Today how he witnessed the floodwaters sweep away his family, destroying the home they were in by smashing it into a bridge. He managed to survive by being carried 11 miles downstream.
Now 45, McComb is part of Texas Search and Rescue (TEXSAR), joining hundreds of volunteers helping locate victims of the severe floods that hit central Texas over the July 4 weekend, USA Today reported.
“This one feels more personal,” McComb told the publication. “I see the pain and suffering in the families. I know what they’re going through and what they will feel.”
Volunteering for TEXSAR is very meaningful to McComb, who told WFAA it’s “an excellent organization where you can help others facing tragedy.”
He shared, “When I was in the hospital, I promised myself that once I was better and saw what TEXSAR was doing, I had to join them to give back and support others.”
Since arriving in Kerrville on the evening of July 4, McComb has been overwhelmed by his emotions.
“It’s a battle inside,” he said. “I’m here to assist, but I remember that we couldn’t find my daughter ten years ago. I know how hard that is. I want to do whatever I can to help.”
McComb, who has remarried and has a 5-year-old daughter, made sure to hold her close before heading out to volunteer.
He hopes his work will bring comfort and hope to those affected by the current floods in Texas.
“I want people to see that even through tragedy, there is hope. Life goes on, and I want to do all I can for those suffering,” McComb said. “They’re experiencing the darkest moments of their lives, and I understand exactly how that feels
