A 16-year-old lifeguard, recently commended by President Trump for his heroic actions at a California beach, shared his thoughts during a crucial moment amidst crashing waves. “I wasn’t going to let him go,” he stated emphatically.
Ryder Williams recounted how he rescued 10-year-old Nathaniel Rye from perilous waves at Seabright State Beach in Santa Cruz, telling his father, retired firefighter Shane Williams, that he couldn’t allow the boy to drown.
Reflecting on the tense situation following his rescue, Williams described his rapid response as he leapt into the water.
Being a rookie lifeguard this year, Williams noticed Nathaniel had stumbled in shallow water, quickly realizing he was in trouble as a strong wave pulled him into deeper waters.
“I radioed in, tossed my radio and sunglasses down, and sprinted toward the child. I slapped on fins, activated the buoy, and jumped in,” Williams explained.
The rescue garnered attention across the nation, with plans for Williams to be honored at the White House by the President.
Assigned to Tower 2, he spent an anxious day managing the crowds and challenging surf conditions.
Williams noted that, due to the turbulent waters, securing the child with tubes wasn’t possible, as Nathaniel was unresponsive while being buffeted by the waves.
After struggling through more waves, fellow lifeguard Aaron Boonen reached them while Ryder urged onlookers to help them return to safety.
Once Nathaniel was back on the sand, Williams fetched medical supplies and began attending to him.
Afterward, he returned to his post to finish his shift.
“I’m thankful for the chance to bring the boy back to his family safely,” Williams expressed. “This is my job and I truly love it.”
