President Donald Trump on Monday welcomed 16-year-old California lifeguard Ryder Williams and the 10-year-old boy he rescued to the Oval Office, praising the teen as a hero after a dramatic ocean rescue that went viral.

Williams, a California State Parks lifeguard, pulled Nathaniel Rai from powerful waves and a rip current at a Santa Cruz beach on July 25. Video of the rescue showed Williams battling rough 8-to-10-foot surf to reach the boy, who was being pounded by the waves, until another lifeguard helped bring both safely to shore.

“It’s an honor to be with Ryder Williams,” Trump said. “I understand he was a winner right from the time they first saw him as a lifeguard. He saved this young gentleman who I had a long talk with. What you did was incredible and everybody saw it.”

Trump said the teen’s actions serve as an inspiration for young Americans and noted that lifeguards often do not receive the credit they deserve.

Williams, who aspires to become a firefighter, told reporters he relied on his training during the dangerous moments. “We are trained so well by many to handle that situation as best we can,” he said. “I hope that everybody can take away from this and try to help more people. Try to look out for everybody around you.”

Nathaniel’s father, Sumit Rai, expressed deep gratitude, saying he is “beyond grateful” for the rescue of his son.

The White House invitation followed the video catching the attention of Eric Trump, who brought the story to the president.