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President Trump honors 16-year-old lifeguard Ryder Williams and 10-year-old Nathaniel Rai in the Oval Office

President Trump met with 16-year-old lifeguard Ryder Williams and 10-year-old Nathaniel Rai at the White House on Monday to recognize a dramatic ocean rescue. Williams saved Rai from a rip current at Seabright Beach in Santa Cruz, California, on July 25. The rescue became a viral sensation after video showed Williams clinging to Rai as powerful waves crashed over them. During the visit, President Trump praised Williams for his bravery, noting that lifeguards often do not receive sufficient recognition for their work. Williams, who aspires to be a firefighter, stated that he relied on his training to navigate the dangerous surf. Rai's father, Sumit Rai, expressed deep gratitude for the rescue, noting that his son was nearly unconscious and seconds away from drowning. The administration announced that Williams would receive a High Civilian Honor for his heroic actions. The meeting served as also to celebrate Rai's 11th birthday, during which the president and the family sang 'Happy Birthday' to the boy.

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