Trump honors 16-year-old lifeguard who rescued boy from dangerous surf
The White House recognition comes after Ryder Williams battled powerful waves to save 10-year-old Nathaniel Rai off the California coast.
President Donald Trump recognized 16-year-old California lifeguard Ryder Williams at the White House Aug. 17 after he rescued a 10-year-old boy from dangerous surf at a Santa Cruz, California, beach in July.
Williams joined Trump in the Oval Office alongside Nathaniel Rai, the boy he saved, fellow lifeguard Aaron Bohnen, and members of the boys’ families.
“What you did was incredible, and everybody saw it,” Trump said to Williams at the White House. “I know that when I first saw it, I said, ‘Roll that back, I want to see it again. Is that really happening?’ And both of you people have to be very proud.”
Trump also told Rai that he had been “very brave” during the ordeal and said, “God was watching you.”
Williams was working at Seabright State Beach July 25 when Rai lost his footing in ankle-deep water and was swept about 15 yards offshore by powerful waves, according to FOX News. The teenager radioed for assistance, entered the water, and grabbed Rai, who lost consciousness and went limp.
Viral video showed Williams holding onto the child as waves repeatedly crashed over them. Bohnen then entered the water and helped bring the pair to shore. Paramedics evaluated Rai after the rescue and released him to his family without serious injuries.
Trump first announced plans to recognize Williams after seeing the rescue video online. In a July 28 Truth Social post, the President called Williams a “heroic young man” and said he intended to bring the teenager and his family to the White House to give him a “High Civilian Honor.”
Trump also said Aug. 17 that he would give Williams a recommendation when the teenager applies to firefighting and paramedic school, after Williams told reporters that he hopes to pursue both.
