Lifeguard Dives into Action to Save Family in Aruba

A family vacation in Aruba took a perilous turn on August 11, when lifeguard Marcelo Lorenzo, 24, saved his relatives from a boating accident. A boat pulling rafts carrying his family abruptly turned, propelling the rafts toward an anchored catamaran. Lorenzo's father, aunt, and cousin were struck.

Lorenzo reacted instantly, swimming to free his father from beneath the catamaran. He then stabilized his aunt, fashioning a sling from a life vest for her injured arm. He also found and kept his unconscious cousin afloat until help arrived.

Two employees assisted in bringing the injured family members aboard the catamaran, which then transported them to shore for hospital treatment. Lorenzo's relatives are recovering, though his father awaits medical clearance to return to the United States.

Lorenzo, who has served as a lifeguard for three years with Hollywood Fire and Rescue, has returned to work. Next week, his courageous actions will be formally recognized with a special award.