Eyes on the Water
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photo by shane darby
Local teen Aiden Kendricks is recognized for his lifesaving rescue at Big Dam Waterpark
By Phoebe Warren
Aiden Kendricks, a sophomore at Texas High School and a dedicated member of the Tiger football team, took on a summer position at Big Dam Waterpark on May 23rd, initially as part of the kitchen staff. Caden Markham, the former assistant manager of operations at Big Dam Waterpark, motivated Aiden to enroll in the Ellis & Associates International Lifeguard Training Program, which was available on-site the following week. “He believed I would be a great fit for the job,” Aiden said.
Luckily, Aiden took the advice and began his new role as a lifeguard at the park on June 6th. On June 10th, only a few days into his new position as a lifeguard, Aiden was diligently watching the water, as per his training. As he surveyed the surroundings of the pool, he noticed a young boy sprinting away from his mother, putting considerable distance between them. “He came over beside me, and I told him not to jump in because he didn’t have a lifejacket on, and there was no jumping allowed since the water was too shallow,” Aiden said. “He sat down on the edge for a moment, then stood up and jumped in.”
“I hope when people hear my story, they also understand how important water safety is and how much proper training can make a difference.”
Immediately, the boy began to struggle in the water. Aiden first reached for his hand but realized the child was too far away. He reacted quickly and calmly. “I blew my whistle, entered the water, and rescued him,” he said. “When I was making the rescue, everything else went out the window, and my training took over.”
After the emergency had subsided, Aiden recalled feeling “shaky, but also very happy” because he had made a difference so early into his new role as a lifeguard. “Right afterward, someone I didn’t know at the time came up to me and told me I had done a great job,” he said. “About 24 hours later, I saw the encouraging post she [Cindy Ware-Davidson] wrote about me on Facebook. I want to thank her.”
After word of Aiden’s heroism spread, the Texarkana ISD Board of Trustees honored Aiden with the Tiger Courage Award. On July 1st, Coach Gerry Stanford, executive director of athletics, presented Aiden with a certificate of recognition and a commemorative medal celebrating his courage and service to others.
“I was recognized, honored, and congratulated by the school board for something I never imagined would happen when I decided to become a lifeguard,” Aiden said. “Between being recognized, meeting families at the water park, and doing interviews, I’ve had the chance to meet many people and share my experience. I hope when people hear my story, they also understand how important water safety is and how much proper training can make a difference.”