Key facts
- A 10-year-old boy was rescued from dangerous surf off the California coast.
- Teen lifeguard Ryder Williams, 16, saved the boy from 10-foot waves and strong currents.
- President Donald Trump announced he would award Williams a high civilian honor.
- Trump also invited Williams and his family to the White House.
- The rescued boy, Nathaniel, suffered no serious injuries and was released to his family.
The father of a 10-year-old boy rescued from powerful surf off the California coast expressed profound gratitude to the teenage lifeguard who saved his son. Sumit Rai told the Associated Press that lifeguard Ryder Williams, 16, risked his own safety by entering the deadly 10-foot waves and strong currents at Seabright beach in Santa Cruz to save his son, Nathaniel.
Nathaniel had been standing in shallow water when he was pulled into the ocean by a sudden swell. Rai, who was in Dallas, learned of the incident when his son told him he had drowned and lost consciousness. He later watched a video of the dramatic rescue.
President Donald Trump announced on social media that he would award Williams a high civilian honor and invite him and his family to the White House. Williams stated he was grateful to have returned the child safely to his family, calling it his job. California State Parks confirmed the boy was swept about 15 yards into the ocean before Williams made contact.
Nathaniel suffered no serious injuries and was released to his family after a medical evaluation. Rai mentioned his son was still dealing with the psychological effects of the traumatic event but expressed his immense gratitude to Williams, stating he could never repay him.