What started off as a fifth-grade graduation celebration at Oakleigh Forest Pool in June, quickly turned scary when attendees saw one of the students motionless at the bottom of the pool.

The five on-duty lifeguards swung into action and saved a girl’s life.

On Tuesday, the five — all Severna Park High School students — were recognized by the Anne Arundel County Fire Department for their bravery at an awards presentation at Oakleigh Forest Pool.

“The main thing is that everyone was ready, and everyone was prepared,” said Lawrence Schultz, assistant chief of the fire department. “Everyone did their part, and in the world of EMS [emergency medical services], and in the chain of survival, if everyone doesn’t do their part the outcomes can be fatal.”

The teenagers are Jonny Reneau, 15, Hayden Fox, 16, Josie Crockett, 17, Koby Bragg, 16, and Connor Hill, 15.

Jonny was the first to notice the drowning swimmer. He blew his whistle to clear the pool before jumping in. With the assistance of Koby and Hayden, they pulled the 11-year-old girl to safety.

Realizing she wasn’t breathing Josie grabbed an automated external defibrillator while the others started chest compressions.

Before emergency personnel arrived, the lifeguards were able to resuscitate the victim, who authorities have not identified.

Jonny, a 6-foot 4-inch sophomore who completed his lifeguard training weeks before the accident, said he didn’t have much time to think before he jumped into action but trusted his coworkers and training.

“Honestly I was scared, but the moment helped me understand how much I need to pay attention during my shifts because things happen quickly,” he said.

Hayden, who is in his second year as a lifeguard, said he’s gained confidence that he can handle other problems but hopes he won’t have to.

“They did everything they were supposed to do and they without a doubt saved a life,” said Capt. Jennifer Macallair, public information officer for the Anne Arundel County Fire Department. “Only right that we give these guys a little recognition.”

Four of the five lifeguards were attended Tuesday’s ceremony, some with their families. All received letters of merit and a challenge coin from the fire department.

Schultz said he was most impressed with all the lifeguards being back at work the next day.

“It would be easy to not want to do this anymore because when it gets real it gets real,” he said. “But as tragic as these types of events can be, it’s certainly a life lesson you will carry with you going forward.”