‘I’m super proud of him’: father of teen lifeguard recounts dramatic ocean rescue
A 16-year-old lifeguard in Santa Cruz, California, successfully rescued a 10-year-old boy from drowning in rough ocean conditions. The dramatic rescue was captured on video and has been praised by the teen's father as a testament to his son's training and determination.
Why it matters
The story highlights the critical importance of youth training in public safety and the bravery of first responders in high-risk environments.
Ryder Williams with his father, Shane. Photograph: Courtesy of Shane Williams Ryder Williams with his father, Shane. Photograph: Courtesy of Shane Williams California ‘I’m super proud of him’: father of teen lifeguard recounts dramatic ocean rescue Ryder Williams, 16, saved a boy from drowning in Santa Cruz, California – the first rescue of his career
Prefer the Guardian on Google A rookie, teenage California lifeguard who saved a young boy from drowning amid massive waves – while a bystander recorded dramatic video – has spent his whole life preparing for such a moment, according to his father.
Ryder Williams, 16, said he refused to let go of the child because he knew the boy would almost certainly die if he did, the lifeguard’s father, Shane, recounted on Tuesday, three days after the pulse-pounding rescue.
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