Welcome to the Evolving Folks Project’s Evolved “Young” Man of the Week profile. Today, we will highlight historical and contemporary figures who embody what it means to be an evolved person, famous and non-famous. The world needs to know their stories and deeds. This week’s honor goes to the Atlanta native and hero, Bryce Brooks.
Bryce Brooks and his parents were vacationing in Pensacola, Florida, on April 6, 2023. The teenager, who was with family and friends, saw four kids fighting the waves in the Gulf of Mexico. Bryce, along with two others, entered the water to rescue the children. Three additional boys raced towards the adults, seeking help.
“He was pulled under” in the water, according to his father. Another family member stated that Charles Johnson II, whom the family called “Uncle Chuck” and who was a close family friend, also went under when he went in after Bryce.
According to WEAR-TV, an ABC affiliate, officials in Escambia County reported rip currents dragged four people 100 yards away. The outlet reported the event occurred in an area with no lifeguards and yellow flags, showing moderate currents.
Brooks passed away, and tragically, the family friend perished in the riptide’s grip while rescuing the drowning children. Brooks, a hero, died after his final selfless act, which saved many lives.
To continue his legacy, Brooks’ family established the Bryce Brooks Foundation to instruct young people in swimming and CPR techniques. Crystal Brooks, Bryce’s mother, remembers her son as she speaks.
“We’re never gonna get to see Bryce grow up to be the full man that he was going to be,” … “But, we know that he stepped into his manhood to save these children, and that makes me proud. It doesn’t take away an ounce of pain, but it makes me proud of our son.”
Bryce Brooks is a hero, and his legacy lives on with a foundation dedicated to teaching adults and children life-saving swimming and CPR techniques. We at the Evolving Folks Project salute the young man who passed away too soon, Bryce Brooks, whose heroic actions saved the lives of others. We extend our deepest and sincerest condolences to the Brooks family. Today, we honor Bryce Brooks as our Evolved “Young” Man of the Week.
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