This is for Hook and Loop version of the Lifeguard 75th Anniversary 3.5" PATCH that reads: CALIFORNIA STATE LIFEGUARD - BEACHES & PARKS - 75 Years - 1950-2025

This is the 2nd patch developed for the 75th Anniversary of the California State Parks Lifeguard Service.

The #1 version patch is also up for purchase.  

In the upcoming year 2025, California State Parks will be recognizing the 75-year history,

contribution, and accomplishments of California State Parks Lifeguards.

Lifeguard services began in California's state parks in 1950, at Huntington State Beach. Robert

Isenor first developed and is recognized as the founder of the state parks lifeguard service. The

first permanent lifeguard classification was created in 1956. Since 1967, state parks lifeguards

have rescued over a quarter of a million people and thousands of water rescues are performed

every year by state parks lifeguards. Lifeguards play a critical role in the Aquatic Safety Program

within California State Parks, for the protection of millions of park visitors to state park beaches,

lakes, and other areas.

To encourage public and department staff awareness of the 75-year contribution of lifeguards, the

two designs (patch & badge patch) are authorized for purchase beginning June 1, 2024 and for wear on the 

Department uniform for the period beginning October 1, 2024, and concluding December 31 ,

2025.  An anniversary badge may be worn in place of the standard Department badge. The patch is

authorized to be worn in place of the Department lifeguard patch on the red trunks of all lifeguard

Classifications or other classifications authorized to wear the lifeguard uniform in the course of

their duties. The anniversary patch shall not be affixed to any other uniform item.

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State Park Lifeguards are open-water lifesaving professionals.  They help operate and manage state park units including coastal beaches, inland lakes, reservoirs, and rivers.

Aquatic Safety in California State Parks.

Public Safety

• Aquatic Rescues
• Medical Aid
• Operating and Maintaining Emergency Equipment
• Law Enforcement Services
• Specialty Assignments such as SCUBA Diving & Swiftwater Rescue

• Advising visitors of rules and regulations
• Providing general park information

• Community Outreach
• Interpretive Programs
• Junior Lifeguard Program

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CSP Mission. To provide for the health, inspiration and education of the people of California by helping to preserve the state's extraordinary biological diversity, protecting its most valued natural and cultural resources, and creating opportunities for high-quality outdoor recreation.

California Department of Parks and Recreation manages 280 park units, which contain the finest and most diverse collection of natural, cultural, and recreational resources to be found within California. These treasures are as diverse as California: From the last stands of primeval redwood forests to vast expanses of fragile desert; from the lofty Sierra Nevada to the broad sandy beaches of our southern coast; and from the opulence of Hearst Castle to the vestiges of colonial Russia.