Nacional becomes the first Costa Rican and Central American woman to be inducted into the Virginia Beach Surf & Rescue Museum.

With 19 years of experience working in various emergencies at the national level, performing functions in the preventive and educational area in  Lieutenant Mery Carranza Badilla, who works at high-risk pools and beaches nationwide, received a historic award from the Virginia Beach Surf & Rescue Museum. The award recognizes that Mery inspires many other female lifeguards to continue growing professionally in the field of lifesaving.

 

The museum honors and preserves the history of Virginia's coastal communities and the maritime history of Virginia Beach, which has a section dedicated to sharing stories of unique female lifeguards, such as Mery Carranza.

With this achievement, the Costa Rican becomes the first Costa Rican and Central American to enter this popular American aquatic rescue facility.

“It is a beautiful reward for my effort and dedication during all these years, where I have had to sacrifice many things, including time with my family, to be able to help people, and to be recognized for this while I am still alive is truly very beautiful for me,” said the honoree.

Since 2001, Carranza's work has not been easy, as venturing into At the beginning of the century, in a profession that had always been represented by men, she managed to generate a change that she assumed with honor and commitment, but at the same time she managed to represent each of the women of this country, demonstrating that where there is a will, there is a way.

Mery currently serves as a lieutenant in the National Lifeguard Association and holds a very important position in the operations department, where she will proudly continue to perform her valuable work.

Written by: Enrique Hernández

General Management: Marco Montero