A large wave, about 10 feet high, crashed onto Sea Bright State Beach in Santa Cruz, California, on Saturday. It swept a young boy into the ocean, prompting a heroic rescue by a 16-year-old lifeguard named Ryder Williams. His quick actions garnered him an invitation to the White House shortly afterward.
The dramatic rescue was captured in a video that runs for about two minutes. At various points, the boy and the lifeguard struggle beneath the surface, only to resurface and sink again.
“The very best in America.”
Scott Vander Dussen, a beachgoer, recorded the harrowing scene on his cell phone from start to finish.
Several other swimmers attempted to assist but faced difficulties and were also directed away. Ultimately, a second lifeguard reached the pair.
NBC Bay Area reported that Ryder is a high school student.
Vander Dussen mentioned that there was no initial warning; one moment, the water seemed ordinary, and then the situation quickly became dangerous. He expressed his belief that, without the lifeguard, the boy might not have made it home that night.
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After the incident, paramedics evaluated the boy and eventually released him to his parents.
As reported by Fox News, a woman claiming to be Ryder’s mother has been outspoken in the days following the rescue, even refusing GoFundMe contributions. She stated, “He was just doing a job he really loved,” and instead suggested donations to the Junior Guard program that trained Ryder.
The Guardian reported on a conversation with Ryder’s father, Shane, who expressed immense pride over his son’s actions, saying he nearly cried at the thought of him saving the boy’s life.
This remarkable incident did not just stay local for long. Eric Trump shared the video on social media, labeling Ryder as “truly America’s best” and advocating for the highest civilian recognition for him.
President Trump also took interest, mentioning in a post that he plans to invite Ryder and his family, and potentially the boy he rescued, to the White House to present them with “high civilian honors.”
“Very brave,” Trump remarked, asserting, “He deserves it.”
Kari Lake, who is linked to Trump, commented on social media, “I got chills watching this.” She expressed admiration for those who risk their lives to save others, especially highlighting Ryder’s heroism.
Chad Prather also chimed in, emphasizing that lifeguards are “true American heroes,” providing proof that society needs courageous individuals.
The rescue has sparked renewed conversations in Santa Cruz regarding the official classification of lifeguards, with Ryder’s mother advocating for them to be recognized as first responders.
Ryder was back on duty the very next day, resuming his regular responsibilities as a lifeguard, according to KION Central Coast.
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