Nineteen Manhattan Beach crossing guards received a surprise "thank you" from a longtime resident on Thursday.

"With thanks for always keeping our children safe in Manhattan Beach," read a certificate presented to the crossing guards by resident Janet Jones. 

Jones also gave each crossing guard an orange rose, donated by Growing Wild.

"Their reactions were uniformly heartwarming and happy," said Jones, who is also the founder of the local Single Mom Project nonprofit. "The crossing guards seemed genuinely touched. Most commented that they loved their jobs and never expected to be recognized for what they do."

The crossing guards live in L.A., Manhattan Beach, Hermosa Beach, Hawthorne, Redondo Beach and Inglewood. Employed by All Cities Management Services, some have worked in Manhattan Beach for less than a year while others have logged more than 15 years.

The neon-green-vested guards are a familiar sight on every school day in the busy street crossings in and around the schools. By the end of the school year, most families and crossing guards know each other by name.

"I definitely think it was a day the crossing guards won't soon forget - and that's what it was all about," said Jones. "My hope is that this low-key, homespun tribute will result in an annual tribute to our crossing guards.  Also, perhaps it will spur other school systems in the South Bay - and beyond - to acknowledge these unsung heroes and heroines in some special way."