Surfmen

Surfmen were members of the United States Life-Saving Service (USLSS) and, after 1915, the United States Coast Guard, stationed at life-saving stations along the coast. Their primary duty was to patrol the beaches, watch for ships in distress, and rescue shipwrecked mariners and passengers.

Surfmen were highly skilled and brave individuals, trained in seamanship, lifesaving techniques, and first aid. They lived at the life-saving station and were on duty day and night, year-round. Their duties included:

• Beach Patrol: Regularly patrolling assigned sections of the beach, looking for signs of distress such as flares, wreckage, or disabled vessels.
• Watch Duty: Maintaining a constant watch from the station tower or lookout for ships in trouble.
• Rescue Operations: Launching surfboats (rowed or powered) to reach vessels in distress, often in hazardous conditions.
• Lifesaving: Rescuing people from the water using a variety of techniques, including swimming, throwing lines, and using the breeches buoy.
• First Aid: Providing medical care to survivors.
• Maintenance: Maintaining the station's equipment, including boats, rescue gear, and buildings.

The work of surfmen was dangerous and demanding, but they played a vital role in saving countless lives. They were highly respected members of their communities and were known for their courage, skill, and dedication. The surfman profession evolved from local volunteers to a well-organized federal service, ultimately becoming an integral part of the modern Coast Guard. The term "surfman" is sometimes still used informally to refer to Coast Guard personnel involved in search and rescue operations near shore.