President Donald Trump announced on Tuesday that he intends to present a lifeguard with a "high civilian honor" after the 16-year-old rescued a young boy from drowning at Seabright Beach in Santa Cruz, California. The teenager plunged into the water, battling the powerful current to reach the child, who had nearly been swept away by a large wave.
Rescue Caught on Video
Scott Vander Dussen filmed the remarkable footage, telling NBC that the boy, who is approximately 10 years old, had been swept out to sea by an enormous wave. "It caught a lot of people off-guard," said Vander Dussen. "Unfortunately, this young man was overwhelmed and swept out in just a moment's time." He further commented that he was relieved it concluded as it did. "I'm certain if the lifeguards weren't there, he wouldn't have gone home that night."
Trump Announces Honor
"We're going to bring this heroic young man, and his family, into the White House with, perhaps, the boy he saved, to give him a High Civilian Honor. Very brave, he deserves it!" Trump wrote on Truth Social. His announcement came after his son Eric suggested the lifeguard should be rewarded. "Give this 16-year-old lifeguard the highest civilian honor," Eric Trump wrote on X. "This is truly the best of America. Well done!"
Aftermath and Training
Fellow beachgoers and a second lifeguard rushed to assist in carrying the boy back to safety. The boy was assessed by paramedics and reunited with his family, according to NBC. Santa Cruz lifeguards are highly trained and must complete at least 56 hours of lifeguard instruction, 24 hours of medical certification training, and more than 80 hours of marine safety lifeguard training. Treacherous waves continue to batter California's coastline as summer presses on.
Which Award Remains Unclear
It remains unclear precisely which accolade President Trump intends to bestow upon the teenager. The Presidential Medal of Freedom represents the nation's highest civilian honor, though it is typically reserved for contributions to "the security or national interests of the United States, or world peace, or cultural or other significant public or private endeavors." Alternatively, Trump could present the Presidential Citizens Medal to the lifeguard. This honor is awarded to "citizens of the United States of America who have performed exemplary deeds of service for their country or their fellow citizens."
