Trump invites California teen lifeguard to White House after heroic beach rescue
Key Points:
- President Donald Trump praised 16-year-old lifeguard Ryder for rescuing a young boy from dangerous waves in Santa Cruz, California, and expressed intentions to invite him and his family to the White House to potentially award him a high civilian honor.
- The dramatic rescue, captured on video, showed Ryder battling massive surf while holding onto the child, earning praise from the Santa Cruz State Lifeguard Association and thousands of social media users.
- Eric Trump also called for Ryder to receive the nation's highest civilian recognition, highlighting the lifeguard's bravery and dedication.
- Witnesses reported the rescue lasted longer than the video indicated, with beachgoers attempting to form a human chain before the surf broke it apart, and noted Ryder's professionalism in continuing his duties after the rescue.
- Seabright Beach, where the incident occurred, is known for hazardous shore break conditions, making Ryder's successful rescue especially notable for a likely first-season lifeguard.