Overview
- A 16-year-old lifeguard plunged into rough water at Seabright State Beach on Saturday to rescue a 10-year-old who had been swept out by sudden strong surf, and bystanders filmed the dramatic rescue.
- Video recorded by witness Scott Vander Dussen shows the lifeguard holding the child’s head above water while waves repeatedly struck and a second lifeguard helped bring the boy to shore.
- California State Parks said the child was checked by paramedics and reunited with family with no serious injuries reported and the rescuer’s identity has not been released because he is a minor.
- President Donald J. Trump posted that he will invite the young rescuer and his family to the White House to receive a High Civilian Honor and Eric Trump called for the nation’s top civilian recognition.
- Lifeguard agencies warned of an unusually high number of rescues that weekend—reporting roughly 34 incidents—urged people not to attempt untrained rescues, and said the viral video should serve as a public‑safety reminder.