WASHINGTON (Diya TV) — President Donald Trump welcomed a teenage lifeguard and the 10-year-old Indian origin boy he rescued from powerful waves off the California coast.

Trump praised 16-year-old Ryder Williams for his courage and calm actions during the July rescue at Seabright State Beach in Santa Cruz, California. He also recognized 10-year-old Nathaniel Rai, who survived the dangerous incident.

“He’s a real hero. I don’t know if I’d do it. I probably wouldn’t,” Trump said of Williams during the meeting.

Trump hosted Williams and Nathaniel in the Oval Office. Their families also attended. Fellow lifeguard Aaron Bohnen joined them after helping Williams during the rescue.

Trump called Williams’ actions “incredible.” He also praised the teenager for staying focused as large waves crashed around him and Nathaniel.

The rescue took place in July at Seabright State Beach. Williams saw Nathaniel lose his footing in shallow water. Rough surf quickly made the situation more dangerous.

Williams tried to use a rescue tube, but the conditions prevented him from getting it around Nathaniel. The teenager then moved toward the boy and held on to him as waves reached about 8 to 10 feet.

At one point, both boys disappeared underwater for several seconds. However, Williams kept hold of Nathaniel and continued moving toward the shore.

Nathaniel eventually lost consciousness. Williams and Bohnen worked together to bring him safely to the beach.

The rescue video later spread widely across social media. Trump also shared the footage on Truth Social and said the boys deserved recognition.

“When I first saw it, I said, ‘roll that back, I want to see that again,'” Trump told the boys.

Williams said his lifeguard training helped him stay calm during the emergency. He focused on getting Nathaniel out of the water as quickly as possible.

“In those dangerous moments that we have, we always try to fall back on our training,” Williams said.

Williams said he hopes to train as a paramedic and later become a firefighter. Trump responded that he might receive “some good recommendations” because of his actions.

Meanwhile, Trump praised Nathaniel for remaining calm during the frightening incident. He also told the boy that his family must feel proud of him.

“Your father is the happiest man in the world,” Trump said.

Trump also invited Williams and Nathaniel to visit the Lincoln Bedroom at the White House.

On July 28, Trump said he planned to bring Williams and his family to the White House. He also indicated that Nathaniel could join them.

Trump said he wanted to recognize Williams with a High Civilian Honour for his actions.