Ben Carlson Memorial Statue Unveiling Draws Thousands to Newport Beach

Newport Beach, CA--It was a glorious sunset on July 6, 2016 at Newport Beach's Benjamin M. Carlson Lifeguard Headquarters. Just the time of day when lifeguards scan the horizon and seeing things all clear, can go home after a day well spent keeping swimmers safe.

On this occasion, the day was not yet done.

There, a crowd of over 2,500 residents, city staff, lifeguards and honorary attendees was present to see the unveiling of Jake Janz's 9-foot tall sculpture honoring Newport Beach's fallen lifeguard. A solemn scene with the ocean breezes, the flag draped above the covered statue.

On a day two years before, waves rose in excess of 12-feet. Ben Carlson was doing what he was made to do. Save others.

South of Newport Pier, a struggling swimmer was Carlson's last call. Diving into the waves, he gave the swimmer his buoy, saving him from the next crushing wave. Carlson drowned, and California wept for his loss.

His was the first death in the line of duty in the 100-year history of the Newport Beach Lifeguard Department, according to reports.

That day, remembered by family and friends, including the artist--who was Ben Carlson's brother in law--prepared for the emotional celebration that is both an end of two years waiting, and the beginning of a new era.

"The statue honors Ben's heroism, but also honors lifeguards, and is intended to help promote ocean water safety," Tara Finnigan, Assistant to the City Manager of Newport Beach said.

A video from the Newport Beach Fire Department shows the moment of the statue's unveiling.

Now, standing 9-feet tall, the towering sculpture that captures the essence of Ben Carlson's love of the ocean and the people he protected will live on.

The Almost 1-ton stainless steel sculpture was created by Javier Valdivieso, owner of ADM Manufacturing, who brought the masterpiece into reality.

Thanks to generous donations and the supportof the community, the Foundation designed and created a nine-foot-tall statue of Ben to stand in McFadden Square, just steps away from the Benjamin M. Carlson Lifeguard Headquarters.

Ben Carlson Foundation members and supporters, City officials, lifeguards and community members gathered in McFadden Square to celebrate the statue’s unveiling.

Visit www.CityofNewportBeach.org for more information.