Station Bodega Bay is 1 out of 20 designated surf stations in the #USCG . Surfmen are highly trained boat operators that have demonstrated superior knowledge and skill as lifeboat coxswains and have shown exceptional maturity and judgment. Operating lifeboats in the surf is inherently dangerous and the brave men and women attached to these units are carrying out an amazing legacy. Before 1915, surfmen served in the United States Life Saving Service, which is credited with saving over 178,000 lives. The men who crewed the life saving stations were often underpaid or completely volunteer. To preserve life and property they utilized self righting/self bailing man powered boats, Lyle guns, Carronades and other apparatuses. The rescues performed are often daring tales of commitment, compassion and courage.