12-Year-Old Boy Saves Adult Man From Drowning, Is Hailed For His Valiant Deed

12-year-old boy pulls man to shore and saves his life

Summer has now arrived in Vietnam, and nothing hits the spot like going for a swim in cool water to dispel the heat. Yet, with crowded swimming pools, some may opt to take a dip in lakes and rivers for convenience’s sake.

That, of course, entails potential danger, as there are no lifeguards to ensure one’s safety.

For this would-be victim of a drowning incident, the 22-year-old man was especially lucky to have been discovered and brought to shore in time. His rescuer, who was only 12 years old when he successfully pulled him to shore, was hailed as a hero.

Here’s how the valiant boy eventually got honored for his impressive feat.

Boy spotted a 22-year-old man drowning and pulled him to shore

(Photo for illustrative purposes only)
Image credit: Vin Mec

On the afternoon of 12th May, 12-year-old Mai Hải Đăng, from Lệ Thủy District, Quảng Bình Province, went with his brother to a river in the area for a swim, reported VTV. There, they spotted 22-year-old Lê Bá Sáng struggling to stay afloat amidst a strong current.

Đăng’s brother immediately went to seek help. While waiting for his brother to return, Đăng made the bold decision to swim out by himself and pull Sáng back to shore.

He then performed CPR to revive the man, and, together with his brother and other helpers, rushed him to the hospital.

Thanks to their efforts, the drowning victim’s life was saved, and he’s now in recovery.

Given an honor certificate by local authorities

Image credit: VTV

The following day, upon learning of Đăng’s heroic deed, local authorities deemed it fit to bestow upon him a certificate of honor.

They’ve also proposed that Đăng is awarded a Valiant Youth Badge from the Hồ Chí Minh Communist Youth Organization.

For context, “Valiant Youth” is an honorary title in the Hồ Chí Minh Communist Youth Organization, given only to members with outstanding contributions to society.

Ensure your own safety while saving someone else

Đăng’s actions are no doubt commendable, and we’re glad to see that he’s getting the acknowledgement he deserves.

However, if you chance upon a similar incident yourself, keep in mind that rescuing a drowning victim is a highly dangerous affair that should only be attempted by an experienced swimmer. Unless you have absolute confidence in your swimming skills, the best approach is to get help from people in the area.

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Cover image adapted from Vin Mec and VTV, left panel for illustrative purposes only

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