Growing up on the east coast, my summers were spent in Saltaire, Fire Island. As early as I can remember Birdies or “trou,” as they were affectionately called, were these mystical things that I knew only to exist in the color red, and worn by our local lifeguard crew. Season after season even as the guards would change the trou remained the same - Birdwell’s were the identifying symbol of my heroes.
When I was finally of age to be a lifeguard, I remember my excitement standing outside the office as our chief lifeguard went inside to get me and another trainee guard our new uniforms. With anticipation rivaling Ralphie from A Christmas Story, I stood waiting to be given my first ever pair of Birdwell’s. He quickly reappeared and tossed me a pair of Richard Simmons-esqe, musty red nylon 80s running shorts and says, “once you pass the test, then you get the Birdwell’s...”
Fast-forward 16 years (and counting), many passed-tests, and three well-loved pairs of red Birdies, that chief lifeguard has become a mentor and close friend. The lifeguard crew I would come to know are now lifelong friends. I have shared the stand, and Birdwell’s, with both of my brothers. I have memories that will last a lifetime. I have come to know the Birdwell brand and admire all that it stands for.
Most of all, I learned that the best things in life are earned, not given.
As such, a pair of red Birdwell’s will forever evoke a deep emotion within me. I grew up with them hanging off my hips. I wore them as I learned how to push myself further than I ever thought possible. I learned what it means to serve your community, to be accountable to yourself and others.
Among our little lifeguard crew, Birdwell’s are the unifying symbol. When I see them I feel an immediate connection and a sense of belonging to something bigger than myself. They are the thread that sows together generations, those who came before us and those who are still to come. Those who might never have otherwise crossed paths in life, but upon seeing that pair of red Birdwell’s they know they share an immediate bond with each other.
For being such a meaningful part of my journey and letting me share in yours, I am forever grateful.
Thank you, Birdwell.
All the best,
Tiffer Valente