Honoring Heroes: San Clemente's Lifeguard Statue 'The Rescue' Set to Celebrate a Legacy of Beach Safety

The San Clemente City Council has officially approved an exciting new public art project that will pay tribute to the town’s first responders, specifically the lifeguards who have played an integral role in ensuring beach safety for nearly a century. The bronze statue, titled “The Rescue,” will be prominently placed in Parque Del Mar, located in the scenic Pier Bowl area. This new installation will honor the lifeguards who safeguard the well-being of both residents and visitors, celebrating the enduring commitment of these unsung heroes who protect San Clemente's shores.

The concept of the statue was brought to the council’s attention by the San Clemente Lifeguard and Junior Lifeguard Foundation, a local nonprofit organization committed to supporting the lifeguard community. The organization now faces the formidable challenge of raising $250,000 to bring the project to fruition. However, enthusiasm is high, and with the community's backing, there is optimism that the goal will be met.

“The Rescue” will be a striking piece, standing approximately 8 feet tall and occupying a modest space equivalent to two beach chairs. The location of the statue, in a grassy area of Parque Del Mar, offers a beautiful view of the city’s iconic pier, with the lifeguards depicted gazing out toward the ocean. This design choice is intentional, symbolizing the unwavering vigilance of San Clemente’s lifeguards as they monitor beachgoers and the ocean, ready to act at a moment’s notice.

This statue serves not just as an artistic creation but as a testament to San Clemente's long-standing dedication to beach safety. The project has been carefully evaluated by the city’s Design Review Subcommittee and the Arts & Culture Committee to ensure it aligns with both the city’s public art goals and its legacy of preserving beach safety. Samantha Wylie, Director of Beaches, Parks, and Recreation, highlighted the statue's importance, stating, “This sculpture symbolizes over 90 years of our city's commitment to keeping our beaches safe. Safety is woven into our identity.”

The history of lifeguarding in San Clemente dates back nearly a century, with lifeguards forming an essential part of the coastal community. The city has earned a reputation for excellence in beach safety, with many residents and visitors citing the lifeguards' quick response to emergencies as one of the key reasons they feel safe visiting the local beaches. This long-standing tradition of service is why the lifeguard community is seen as a vital pillar of the town’s identity, and this new statue will serve as a permanent reminder of their invaluable contributions.

Greg Hulsizer, the President of the San Clemente Lifeguard and Junior Lifeguard Foundation, echoed Wylie’s sentiment during the City Council meeting, emphasizing how important it is to honor this tradition. “The lifeguards have been a crucial part of our community for generations,” he said. “Their service and dedication have saved countless lives, and this statue will stand as a lasting tribute to their vigilance and sacrifice.”

The design of the statue itself will be brought to life by Bill Limebrook, a renowned sculptor with a reputation for crafting beautiful and poignant public art pieces. Limebrook is perhaps best known for his work on the Marine Monument at Park Semper Fi and the sculptures at Dana Point’s Watermen’s Plaza, both of which honor heroes and community members who have made significant contributions to the safety and culture of Southern California’s coastal towns.

Limebrook’s artistic vision for “The Rescue” will depict both a male and female lifeguard looking out into the water, embodying the unity, strength, and alertness that lifeguards display every day as they watch over the public. Greg Hulsizer, in his remarks to the City Council, jokingly noted, “Why would we want our lifeguards looking away from the water?” This playful comment underscores the gravity of the work lifeguards do, constantly watching for any signs of danger while maintaining a calm and composed demeanor.

One of the more significant discussions during the City Council meeting revolved around the timeline for securing the necessary $250,000 to fund the statue. While everyone in attendance agreed on the importance of the project, there were concerns about whether the funds could be raised within a reasonable period. To address this, the council added a provision: if the funds are not secured within five years, the project will be reviewed, and the deadline may be extended if necessary. This condition ensures that the project remains feasible while also keeping it on track for completion.

The council also explored various aspects related to the ongoing maintenance of the statue once it is installed. To ensure that the statue remains in pristine condition for years to come, the city has committed to covering the annual maintenance costs, which are expected to range between $1,000 and $2,000. Additionally, there is a possibility that local San Clemente foundations may step in to assist with these expenses, demonstrating the widespread community support for the project.

Mayor Victor Cabral expressed his enthusiasm for the statue, noting that it represents not only an opportunity to honor the lifeguards but also to inspire the community to come together in support of a common goal. “I want to see this done next year. That will solve all of our problems,” he said with a laugh, injecting some levity into the proceedings.

This approval marks a significant milestone for the city and the lifeguard community. The San Clemente Lifeguard and Junior Lifeguard Foundation will now begin the work of fundraising, reaching out to both local residents and broader supporters of the lifeguard community. As the fundraising campaign kicks off, the sense of anticipation is palpable. The statue will not only be a physical manifestation of the city’s appreciation for its lifeguards but also a reminder of the importance of beach safety and the critical role first responders play in maintaining it.

“The Rescue” comes at a time when public recognition of first responders is more important than ever. With the increasing challenges of climate change and rising tides affecting beach conditions, lifeguards have been placed under growing pressure to monitor and react to an ever-changing ocean environment. In this context, honoring lifeguards with a public art installation feels both timely and necessary, acknowledging their dedication and the unique challenges they face in protecting the public.

As the city rallies behind this project, the statue promises to become a beloved symbol of San Clemente's commitment to safety and the community’s appreciation for its first responders. It will also serve as a beacon for future generations, reminding them of the value of public service and the essential role that lifeguards play in keeping the beaches safe.

The project reflects not only a celebration of the past and present but also a commitment to the future. With the city’s iconic pier as its backdrop, “The Rescue” will likely become a popular attraction for both locals and tourists, drawing attention to the legacy of lifeguarding in San Clemente and encouraging ongoing support for those who dedicate their lives to ensuring the safety of others.

With a timeline now in place and the goal set at $250,000, the community can begin to look forward to the day when the statue will be unveiled in Parque Del Mar. For the lifeguards of San Clemente, this statue will serve as a well-deserved acknowledgment of their hard work, vigilance, and the lives they have saved. It stands not only as a tribute to those who serve but also as an inspiration for future lifeguards who will continue the proud tradition of keeping San Clemente’s beaches safe.