A father from California has spoken publicly about the moment his 10-year-old son was pulled unconscious from the ocean after being swept up in dangerous rip tides and heavy surf at Seabright State Beach in Santa Cruz. Sumit Rai described receiving the phone call every parent dreads, and credited 16-year-old lifeguard Ryder Williams with saving his son's life, saying he could never repay him for his bravery. The rescue, which went viral online, has drawn national attention to the courage of young lifeguards working California's beaches.

Williams, who was on duty at the time, is being hailed as a hero for his swift response in pulling the boy from the powerful surf. As a result of his actions, he has been invited to the White House to receive a civilian honour recognising his heroism. Rai's public thanks come as the story continues to circulate widely, with both the lifeguard and the rescued boy's family speaking out about the ordeal.