MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. -- Rather than sending their children to summer camp this year, some of Camp Pendleton’s residents have opted to let their children spend six weeks at the beach.
More than 40 military children began learning lifeguarding lessons and beach safety during the Camp Pendleton Junior Lifeguard Program’s 2010 inaugural day at Del Mar Beach, June 21.
The Junior Lifeguard Program is dedicated to teaching military children, between the ages of 9 and 16, general lifeguard knowledge such as first aid, recognizing and evading rip currents, environmental issues and caring for the beach.
“It is important for the participants to learn how to interact with the ocean,” said Kristin L. Veria, lifeguard sergeant, Camp Pendleton Lifeguard Service. “This is some children’s first time at the beach.”
Throughout the six-week program, teamwork is emphasized, and that togetherness is put to the test through various events.
“We are teaching the kids how to look out for each other, similar to how Marines do,” said Veria.
The environment lifeguards are in can be dangerous, said Matthew J. Berry, JLP instructor, CPLS. The program teaches participants how to have fun in that environment.
“While they’re playing at the beach, the kids can perpetuate that knowledge to others,” he said.
In addition to gaining knowledge about water safety, the JLP members learn about healthy living, exercise and nutrition.
“We are learning a lot of really cool lifeguard training,” said 14-year-old Robert V. Garcia, son of a retired Marine. “I wouldn’t want to spend my summer any other way.”
For more information on base lifeguard programs, call (760) 725-2703.