In this episode of "The Ascent," host Sam McGee is joined by Assistant Fire Chief Walter Ball to discuss the recent flooding in Hill Country, Texas, and the heroic response of local first responders. The conversation covers the timeline of the emergency, inter-agency cooperation, personal stories of resilience and community support, and upcoming community events like the Firefighter Games and the "Tug the Truck" fundraiser. The episode highlights the dedication of firefighters, the importance of mental health support, and the strength of the local community in times of crisis.

Timeline & Chapters

• 0:00 – Introduction
  • Host disclaimer, show intro, and guest introductions.
• 0:35 – Co-host Sam McGee checks in from Colorado
  • Reflections on remote work and recent events.
• 1:00 – Acknowledgment of Flooding in Hill Country
  • Expressing thoughts for those affected.
• 1:17 – Focus of the Episode: First Responders
  • Setting the stage for the discussion on emergency response.
• 1:42 – Introducing Assistant Fire Chief Walter Ball
  • Chief Ball joins the show, shares his background.
• 2:24 – July 4th Flood Response: Timeline
  • Chief Ball recounts the days leading up to and during the flood.
  • Early morning weather monitoring and mutual aid activation.
• 4:11 – Emergency Operations Center & Swift Water Rescue
  • Details on the EOC, boat teams, and rescue missions.
• 5:24 – Scope of the Response
  • 20 river miles covered, multiple agencies involved.
• 6:14 – Inter-agency Coordination
  • Collaboration between fire, EMS, police, and emergency management.
• 7:09 – Positive Stories from the Field
  • Community support: notes left on responders’ vehicles.
  • Mental health support offered to first responders.
• 10:47 – Firefighter Games & Community Events
  • Chief Ball discusses the Texas Firefighter Games and the possibility of hosting them locally.
  • Upcoming "Tug the Truck" and police car push event.
• 13:00 – Community Resilience & Appreciation
  • Reflections on the community’s response and gratitude for first responders.
• 15:00 – Closing Remarks
  • Information on Crestmont Private Wealth and how to get involved in community events.

• Original Air Date: August 2, 2025 at 8:30am as heard on Boerne Radio 103.9FM

  Contact: www.crestmontpw.com

  Alec Walker in Houston: 831-280-5288

  Sam McGee in Boerne: 830-368-2898

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