A Warwick father underwent surgery Friday for a fractured spine after being rescued from Greenwood Lake by his young daughter.

Lifeguard Joseph Pesante, 19, is being credited with teaching 6-year-old Laila Hamilton to swim - a skill she used to save her father, 34-year-old Jason Hamilton, from drowning Friday.

Police say Jason Hamilton lost consciousness after diving into shallow water. His daughter managed to swim to him, pull him to safety and call for help.

Robert Veltidi, a former athletics and aquatic director with formal CPR training, heard the girl's screams and called 911. He then ran to shore and administered CPR that ultimately saved Jason Hamilton's life.

The 34-year-old father does not appear to be paralyzed.

For interview about man rescued from drowning in Greenwood Lake, go to your digital cable box and select iO Extra on Ch. 612.