Email   Print   Share By Madalene Smith, Summer Intern

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Sgt. Xavier Land, NCOIC of Wrangler Pool, talks to a swimmer at the pool June 19. Madalene Smith, Summer Intern

Pvt. Elifredo Cabrera, a lifeguard at Wrangler Pool, steps down from his lifeguard stand at the pool June 19. Wrangler Pool is one of seven Fort Hood area outdoor pools open throughout the summer. All seven pools are open seven days a week from noon to 8 p.m. Madalene Smith, Summer Intern

Spc. Youngsun Jyang, a lifeguard at Wrangler pool, talks to a young swimmer, Dylan Dereraux, 9, about pool safety on June 19. Madalene Smith, Summer Intern

Spc. Youngsun Jyang, a lifeguard at Wrangler pool, monitors the safety of the pool’s guests June 19. Madalene Smith, Summer Intern

Sgt. Xavier Land enjoys his job.

He’s the noncommissioned officer-in-charge at Fort Hood’s Wrangler Pool, where he and his fellow lifeguards focus on providing a safe, Family-friendly environment for the community as its members try to cool off from Central Texas 100-degree-plus heat.

“We want to provide a wonderful atmosphere here at the pool while people are taking a dip,” Land said, “… so everyone will feel safe and relaxed.”

While walking around the pool, Land explained what is expected of his team of lifeguards.

“All lifeguards must have special training and know the proper way to rescue someone,” he said. “We also want the guards to be alert at all times.”

Land stressed that the lifeguards must always be aware of their surroundings, being constantly watchful for their patrons’ safety.

Pvt. Elifredo Cabrera, a lifeguard at the pool, said in addition to watching out for swimmers’ safety, part of his job is to check the pool every 15 to 30 minutes to make sure there are no loose items on the bottom.

Land said Wrangler Pool, located at 58th Street and Support Avenue, is a good place for Families to spend time together and beat the Texas heat. Plus, he said really likes his job.

“It is wonderful to be a lifeguard,” Land said.

Wrangler Pool, as well as the six other Fort Hood outdoor pools scattered throughout the installation, is open from noon to 8 p.m. every day.