16-year-old lifeguard saves 10-year-old at Santa Cruz beach
A teenage lifeguard rescued a boy caught in strong surf at Seabright State Beach, drawing praise from rescue officials and a pending White House honor.
A 16-year-old lifeguard at Seabright State Beach in Santa Cruz pulled a 10-year-old boy from turbulent surf on Saturday afternoon. The teen, identified as Ryder Williams, kept the child’s airway above water by holding him close while both were briefly submerged, then guided them back to shore as waves crashed over them.
Tom Gill, president of the United States Lifesaving Association, said the rescue demonstrated “extremely brave” action and “poise, training, [and] confidence” in a powerful current. Wyatt Werneth, spokesperson for the American Lifeguard Association, called the effort “above and beyond the standard” for a 16-year-old lifeguard.
Williams’ father, Shane Williams, said his son wants “to be a kid and work hard this summer and serve and protect his community.” The family is seeking to keep the teenager out of the national spotlight.
The incident has prompted President Donald Trump to announce a “High Civilian Honor” for the lifeguard at the White House, a suggestion echoed by Eric Trump, who called the teen “truly the best of America.”
State officials note that the California Department of Parks and Recreation employs about 600 seasonal lifeguards each summer and that lifeguards conduct roughly 10,000 rescues annually. The rescue has reignited discussion about formally recognizing lifeguards as first responders, a goal supported by House Resolution 1188.