Bryce Brooks, a 16-year-old boy from Atlanta, showed extraordinary courage during a family vacation in Florida in 2023. While enjoying time in Pensacola, Bryce saw four younger children struggling in powerful rip currents, their heads repeatedly pulled underwater. Without hesitation, Bryce and a couple of his friends jumped in to rescue the children.
Bryce, even while being pulled by the strong current himself, called for help—but not for himself. Tragically, he was pulled under before help could reach him. A family friend, Charles Johnson II, also rushed in to save Bryce and was lost as well. The incident occurred in a lifeguard-free zone, with yellow flags warning about moderate rip currents.
Bryce’s family is devastated but proud. His father, Shivy Brooks, calls him a hero who selflessly put other children’s lives ahead of his own. Bryce’s courage and sacrifice highlight his bravery and character. To honor his legacy, the family launched the Bryce Brooks Foundation, focused on swim safety and drowning prevention, including providing scholarships for lifeguard training.
