Nicknamed the “Graveyard of the Atlantic,” the treacherous waters of the Atlantic Ocean along the Outer Banks have been the setting throughout the centuries for stories both tragic and heroic. By the early 1800s, the hazards of severe weather, strong currents and navigational challenges had caused the loss of thousands of ships and an unknown number of human lives. Congress did, however, officially establish the U.S. Life-Saving Service in the 1870s as the first federal program mandated to aid imperiled ships and save the lives of shipwreck victims.
Today, life-saving rescue teams have worked hard to maintain the legacy of the early “surfmen” who dedicated their lives to saving shipw
reck victims. “Lifeguarding is a very old job,” says David Elder, Kill Devil Hills Ocean Rescue Supervisor. “If you have ever worked as a lifeguard, you know you are always on duty.”
Any job with the Life-Saving Service was sought after and men who held the position were respected within their communities. The tradition of men following their brothers or fathers into the service lasted throughout several generations, continuing even after the Life-Saving Service became part of the Coast Guard in 1915. For rescuers such as Elder, who has been a part of the Kill Devil Hills Ocean Rescue team since its beginning in 1999, the life-saving industry is a job of interest on many levels.
“It’s a great job. It’s never boring and there is a focus on safety,” Elder notes.
On an average day the Ocean Rescue team observes the conditions of the ocean early before the lifeguards come in. They check the swells and wind conditions, in addition to seeing if there is a need for an advisory. The week also contains three days of physical training in addition to prepping the guards on things to look out for.
“Every day is a little bit different. We are working against the wilderness,” says Elder.
During the early days of the Life-Saving Service, in between shipwrecks, the crews farmed, fished and found other ways to keep themselves useful. Today, the rescue season runs from Memorial Day to Labor Day. There is also a time of ramp-up and ramp-down, where the team prepares for the change in season. The crew makes sure the equipment is up to standards and everything is in order. During this time, the team is also recruiting and training.
“During training we make sure everyone is thinking on the same page. Every day there is a physical portion.”
When it comes to guests visiting the beach, Elder and the Ocean Rescue team offer up several tips. These tips include preparing yourself when walking over the dunes, using adequate sunscreen, staying hydrated and preparing for the weather. Also, it is important to check in with the local lifeguard if you have any questions.
“There are localized conditions along the beach and it is important to understand the current conditions and any surf advisories,” said Elder. 
The Life-Saving Service is an industry of history and legacy. The members of organizations such as the Kill Devil Hills Ocean Rescue team work hard to promote safety near and around the ocean, in addition to monitoring and saving the lives of those who partake in what the great Atlantic Ocean has to offer. So take in the beauty of the Outer Banks, have fun on your beach vacation, and always remember to practice safety while in the water.