Teen receives commendation after he risks his life to save five-year-old boy

14-year-old Riley John is being hailed a hero after he jumped off a cliff  into an ice cold creek, risking his own life to save another.

Riley was at Cope Park in Juneau Alaska, when he saw five-year-old Mason slip and fall 15 ft into a creek.

The teen didn't waste any time, and immediately jumped in after the child, passing him to a friend to get him out of the water quickly.

Riley's efforts saved little Mason's life and he is being hailed a hero by both authorities and the youngster's mum, who says she is eternally grateful to the teen for risking his life. 

According to Inside Edition, the teen was honoured during a ceremony at his school by the police, and received an commendation award for his bravery. 

What an incredible young man; his story definitely deserves to be shared.