Together, retired Officer Jorge Grajeda (left) and Reverend Rudy Paniagua (right) saved a drowning child.  Paniagua pulled the young boy from the water, and Grajeda performed CPR, ensuring the child's full recovery. Photos by Stephanie Grande/American Red Cross.

Retired Officer Jorge Grajeda found himself in a critical moment during his Labor Day weekend at the Palm Club Pool in Irvine when he spotted Reverend Rudy Paniagua's efforts to rescue a child from drowning.

Springing into action, Grajeda assessed the situation and recognized the severity of the boy’s condition. Pale and frothing at the mouth, the child had no pulse. Without hesitation, Grajeda initiated CPR while coordinating with others to alert emergency services and guide paramedics to their location.

For several tense minutes, Grajeda tirelessly performed CPR on Jared, the little boy, never faltering in his efforts to revive him. His quick thinking and skilled intervention proved vital as Jared regained consciousness before the paramedics arrived.

Thanks to Grajeda's decisive actions, Jared received timely medical attention and was transported to the hospital, where he was expected to make a full recovery. Grajeda's unwavering commitment to saving a life exemplifies the selflessness and courage ingrained in his years of service as a law enforcement officer.

Seconds matter in drowning situations. Prepare yourself with CPR training by visiting redcross.org/take-a-class/cpr/cpr-training/cpr-online

About the American Red Cross:

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.