President Donald Trump welcomed 16-year-old lifeguard Ryder Williams and the 10-year-old boy he rescued, Nathaniel Rai, to the White House on Monday to honor the dramatic rescue.
Williams was recognized in the Oval Office for saving Rai from powerful ocean waves at Seabright Beach in Santa Cruz, California, last month. A bystander's video captured the rescue, showing Williams struggling against the surf while keeping Rai afloat until they reached safety.
"He's a real hero," Trump said of Williams, who sat beside him. "What you did was incredible and everybody saw it. It's unbelievable."
Trump also acknowledged Williams' mother, Shannon, stating, "You did a good job, it's good genetics, when you look at him, you can see." He also commended Rai for remaining calm during the rescue.
Rai's father, Sumit, expressed his gratitude to Williams and the other lifeguards involved, including Aaron Bohnen who assisted with the rescue closer to shore.
Williams, who aspires to be a firefighter, thanked his training team for preparing him for emergencies. Trump indicated he would offer recommendations for Williams' future career.
