Brevard County Ocean Rescue Lifeguards start their Fourth of July weekend duties with a time-honored tradition: running the U.S. flag down the beach. The event, held each year on July 4, marks the beginning of a busy weekend for lifeguards as crowds flock to local beaches. The tradition, which has become a local staple, involves lifeguards sprinting with the flag across the sand before starting their shifts. Photos from past events show the flag unfurling under the summer sun, with lifeguards posing for pictures afterward. The Fourth of July is one of the busiest times of the year for Brevard’s beaches, with thousands of visitors expected over the three-day holiday. Lifeguards typically work in pairs, patrolling the shoreline to ensure safety amid the crowds. The flag run is a brief but symbolic moment, emphasizing the role lifeguards play in protecting beachgoers. Local residents and tourists alike gather to watch the event, which takes place at multiple beaches across the county. The tradition is especially notable at Cocoa Beach, where the lifeguard station is a visible landmark. Lifeguards say the flag run helps them transition into their duties, setting a tone of vigilance and community service. With temperatures often reaching 90 degrees, the event also serves as a reminder of the physical demands of the job. The lifeguards’ uniforms, marked with the Brevard County Ocean Rescue logo, are a familiar sight to locals. The Fourth of July flag run is one of several traditions the department maintains, including beach cleanups and public safety demonstrations. For many, the event is a way to celebrate both American heritage and the dedication of local first responders. The lifeguards typically return to the beach after their shifts to enjoy the festivities, though their focus remains on safety.