Teen Lifeguard’s Close Call: Rookie Hero Saves Boy from Crushing Santa Cruz Waves

Sixteen-year-old Ryder Williams, a rookie lifeguard at Seabright State Beach in Santa Cruz, describes grabbing a limp 10-year-old from 8–10-foot surf and holding on as waves threatened to pull them out; with a partner's help and bystanders kept at bay, he kept his grip until they were hauled ashore, a rescue that drew praise from officials and President Trump and underscored the importance of teamwork and ocean safety.