Manhattan Beach About Town
McArthur named firefighter of the year
Once a year, the Manhattan Beach Fire Department recognizes one of its own as an exemplar of what the organization strives to be for the entire community. This year’s firefighter of the year is Christian McArthur, an eight-year MBFD veteran who was publicly commended at the June 4 City Council meeting.
MBFD Chief Darren Drum described McArthur as one of the department’s young leaders.
“What I would like to tell you about is his dedication, empathy, and kind nature,” Drum said. “Those three things make him the epitome of a South Bay firefighter, of a Manhattan Beach employee…and of the Manhattan Beach Fire Department.”
McArthur, who is also a paramedic, was selected by a committee within the department representing all ranks.
“Christian truly embodies and represents what’s best of the Manhattan Beach Fire Department,” said MBFD Capt. Dave Shenbaum. “His hard work, dedication, attitude, and servant’s heart has made him an easy choice by his peers and members of the department for this award.”
McArthur is a second generation firefighter. His father, Lee McArthur, served 33 years with the Torrance Fire Department.
“I owe this job to him,” McArthur said. “The passion that I have for the fire service was passed down to me.”
McArthur also praised Drum, who is only two months into his tenure as chief in Manhattan Beach and has earned early praise from members of a department which had experienced internal strife in the years prior to his arrival.
“We just really appreciate your support here within the fire department, and moving us forward in a positive direction,” McArthur said.
The young firefighter also thanked his newlywed wife Sheriden, his mother Jenelle, his mother-in-law, Kathleen, and his firefighting brethren.
“You guys are like family to me,” he said. “And many of you are my mentors. I wouldn’t be standing up here if it weren’t for all of you guys.”
Drum, in a subsequent interview, said something else stood out about McArthur.
“One of the things I failed to mention is how humble this young man is,” he said. “That is one thing I would add — his absolute humility, and how he looks to others to praise them every chance he gets, which is just a quality I wish we all had.”