STONINGTON, Conn. (WPRI) — David Grigely is counting his blessings.

Grigley was swimming at East Beach earlier this month when he and several others became caught in a strong rip current.

"I'm a pretty good swimmer, but this rip current was just fierce," Grigley recalled.

Jayden and Jaxon Grayson, brothers who are both certified lifeguards, were off duty at the time but immediately jumped into action, as did lifeguard Zach Pasquin.

"This rip tide was probably 250 yards out and 20-to-30 yards wide," 17-year-old Jayden said. "It was pretty big."

The trio quickly swam out to Grigley and the other distressed swimmers, prioritizing those who were farther out. The lifeguards then flagged down a nearby boat and were brought aboard by the passengers.

"We've never had to do this before," Jayden said. "It was an insane day."

Pasquin said just thinking about the ordeal still gives him goosebumps.

"It was a terrifying moment," Pasquin said. "There was a lot of training involved that we were able to execute and all make it home safe."

Grigley said he's eternally grateful their paths crossed.

"They're my heroes," he said. "Luckily for me they were there. It could've had a whole different ending."

Gringley treated the lifeguards to dinner Thursday night, even though the trio assured him several times that they were just doing their job.

"These are special guys," Gringley said. "They're very humble, too."

Gringley, the Grayson brothers and Pasquin agreed that their newfound bond will last a lifetime.