The residents of Surf City, NC, are lucky to be surrounded by beautiful aquatic scenery all year round, but a recent event gathered huge crowds of their citizens to the shore for a very special moment.
It wasn't a holiday or anything like that. Instead, the folks were all there to witness the amazing return of five rescued and rehabilitated sea turtles back to the water.
One person in particular, 93-year-old Mary Lou Hall, was especially excited to be there for the unforgettable occasion. Despite having lived in the area since 1967, she explains in the clip below that this was her first time ever being able to observe sea turtles being released.
While it was a big day for all of the adorable animals, one huge fella named Sweet Pea definitely stole the show weighing in at a whopping 250-pounds. The crew at the Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue and Rehabilitation Center say he's one of the largest turtles to ever cross their path!
Jean Beasley, the center's executive director, admits that watching the critters finally waddle back to their natural habitat was a little bittersweet after spending so much time caring for them.
After seeing how happy, healthy, and hefty in Sweet Pea's case these turtles are, it's clear she and her team are dedicated to providing the best for their animals.
Take a look below to hear more from Beasley and Hall.
And don't forget to SHARE the breathtaking moment with your friends!
