Lifeguard II

Department of Parks and Recreation

12/11/2015

Special Service Award (Silver)

On December 11, 2015, at 11:00 a.m., during the biggest El Niño surf event in years, with 15 to 20 foot waves along a rocky shoreline, California State Parks Lifeguard II Christopher Connolly responded to a call at Faria Beach north of the City of Ventura. Lifeguard Connolly entered the water without hesitation. He swam to the victim, secured him to a life buoy, and then fought wave sets while seeking a safe spot to exit the surf. Lifeguard Connolly traveled south from the initial rescue point for more than three-quarters of a mile in a swift current while attempts from other rescuers to reach the pair from shore failed. He held the victim close for protection and talked the surfer through the ordeal. Eventually, Lifeguard Connolly was able to reach a sandy beach with the rescuee who was exhausted, but unhurt. Without the actions of Lifeguard Connolly, the surfer likely would have drowned in the pounding surf. Veteran lifeguards from California State Parks called Connolly’s efforts one of the most demanding and dynamic rescues ever witnessed.