A 16-year-old lifeguard is being recognized as a hero after he bravely rescued a young boy who was swept out to sea by powerful waves at Seabright Beach in California.
The dramatic incident unfolded on Saturday when a sudden “sneaker wave” struck the shoreline, pulling the boy into dangerous currents.
Photographer Scott Vander Dussen, who was at the scene and captured video of the rescue, said conditions appeared calm for much of the day before the wave rapidly changed the situation. The boy was carried roughly 200 meters from shore, with his head visible bobbing in the water.
The teenage lifeguard, who is in his first year on the job and has chosen to remain unnamed, acted without hesitation. He dove into the churning ocean, swam through the monsterous waves, and successfully brought the boy back to safety.
Vander Dussen described the rescue as “unbelievable” to witness, praising the young lifeguard’s quick thinking and composure. After reaching shore, the lifeguard caught his breath, checked on the boy, and returned to his duties for the remainder of his shift.
The child was examined by paramedics on scene, avoided serious injury, and was reunited with his relieved parents.
The video of the rescue, filmed by Vander Dussen, quickly went viral online, amassing millions of views and sparking widespread praise for the teen’s courage.
On Tuesday, President Donald Trump announced he would invite the lifeguard and his family to the White House—possibly along with the boy he saved—to present him with a high civilian honor.
“He deserves it,” Trump wrote. “Very brave.”
Vander Dussen, who lives near the beach and knows many of the local lifeguards, noted that the 16-year-old is a talented athlete who also excels in water polo. Following the rescue, the young lifeguard became a local celebrity, drawing crowds of well-wishers the next day and leading officials to temporarily pull him from regular duty.
The photographer said he initially feared the worst during the ordeal but expressed relief and admiration that the story ended positively. He hopes the event highlights ocean safety awareness and celebrates the dedication of young first responders.
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