U.S. President Donald Trump has pledged to honour a 16-year-old lifeguard who risked his life to save a young boy from dangerous surf off the California coast, praising the teenager’s courage and selflessness.
The lifeguard, identified only as Ryder, has been widely hailed as a hero after dramatic footage captured him battling towering waves to rescue a child caught in strong currents at Seabright State Beach in Santa Cruz, California. The incident has drawn national attention, with many describing the teenager’s actions as extraordinary.
According to eyewitnesses, the sea conditions changed rapidly, with powerful waves pulling the child farther from shore. Ryder entered the water and held on to the struggling boy, repeatedly diving beneath crashing waves while keeping the child above water until additional help arrived.
Several beachgoers attempted to assist by forming a human chain, but the force of the waves made the rescue difficult. A second lifeguard later joined Ryder, and together they safely brought the boy back to shore. The child was evaluated by paramedics before being reunited with his parents.
Reacting to the rescue, President Trump said Ryder deserved recognition at the highest level and promised that the White House would honour the teenager for his bravery.
The President’s pledge came after the rescue video gained widespread attention online, with Americans from across the country commending the young lifeguard’s calmness and professionalism under life-threatening conditions.
Witness Scott Vander Dussen told local media that the ocean had appeared relatively calm before conditions deteriorated within moments.
“The waves changed in a heartbeat,” he said, adding that he believed the boy might not have survived without the swift intervention of the lifeguards.
Ryder’s mother also thanked members of the public for the outpouring of support, saying she was overwhelmed by the messages of appreciation and describing her son as someone who was simply doing the job he loves.
The dramatic rescue has sparked widespread praise on social media and renewed appreciation for the work of lifeguards, whose rapid response and training often prove critical during emergencies at beaches and other waterfronts.
While the White House has not yet announced details of the planned recognition or the date it will take place, Trump’s public commitment has further amplified calls to formally recognise Ryder’s heroism.
