This commendation was given to Dick Johnson in 1982.

Resolution of Commendation

By

Board of Supervisors

County of Orange

Richard Johnson

On motion of Supervisor Riley, duly seconded and carried, the following Resolution was adopted:

WHEREAS, on December 21, 1981, Richard Johnson was working the concession stand at Aliso Beach Park, when he heard the cries of Steve Champion of Westminster who had been caught in the undercurrent and swept out to sea; and

WHEREAS, without a wet suit to protect him, Richard Johnson entered the cold water in an attempt to rescue the imperiled swimmer; and

WHEREAS, Johnson, an off-duty member of the International Lifeguard team which serve South County beaches, failed his first rescue effort, but continued in his lifesaving attempts despite the cold water, rough seas, strong winds and perilous riptides; and

WHEREAS, Richard Johnson concluded a 30-minute battle with the elements by pulling Steve Champion safely from the sea;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Orange County Board of Supervisors does congratulate Richard Johnson for his professional work in saving a swimmer at Aliso Beach Park and further commends him for his courage and unselfishness in the face of danger in completing this successful rescue.

January 19, 1982

Supervisors:

ThomasF. Riley

RogerR. Stanton

HarrietM. Wieder

BruceNestande

RalphB. Clark