California teen lifeguard's viral rescue captures nationwide awe. He was just doing 'his duty'

2026-07-29 18:43 • ;Grace Toohey

A 16-year-old lifeguard in his first summer on the job helped rescue a child from pounding waves in Santa Cruz. His efforts drew widespread praise from California to the White House.

Read More Here: https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2026-07-29/california-teen-lifeguard-rescue-captures-awe