San Bernardino sheriff's lieutenant awarded National Guard commendation for wildfire heroism

( This story has been updated because an earlier version included an inaccuracy regarding the number of years of Lt. Col. Manuel Arino's career . )

The California Army National Guard presented a San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department lieutenant with the California Commendation Medal Thursday for tireless efforts during the Line and Bridge fires this month.

Lt. Julius McChristian received the honor from California Army National Guard Lt. Col. Manuel Arino during a ceremony at Rancho Cucamonga City Hall.

It was a rare honor for a person not among the military ranks.

"I have not seen in my 20-plus year career the California Commendation Medal given to a civilian. It's usually given to military personnel. So this is very special," Arino said. "I wanted to make sure he was recognized for all his hard work and dedication."

McChristian became a common sight for National Guard troops sent to assist in firefighting and security operations amid the raging flames of the Line and Bridge fires this month, Arino said.

"Everywhere I went: Two in the morning, Julius was there. Five in the morning up in Big Bear, Julius was there. The next day, seven in the morning in Phelan, Julius was there, always taking care of my troops."

"Next day, somewhere else … Julius was there. I started thinking they cloned this guy," he said. "It is with great pleasure that I would like to present the California Commendation Medal to Lt. McChristian."

A citation read aloud during the ceremony stated the acknowledgement was "for meritorious service in support of military police officers from the 143rd Military Police Battalion during operation wildfires."

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"Lt. McChristian's professionalism and tactical competency were essential to mission accomplishment. Lt. McChristian's selflessness and dedication to others are in keeping with the values and traditions of the California National Guard," the citations stated. "His outstanding performance and unwavering devotion to duty reflect great credit upon himself, the 143rd Military Police Battalion and the California Army National Guard."

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Sheriff Shannon Dicus, who himself served with the Army's 101st Military Police Company, said it was a great to see a deputy honored with the California Commendation Medal.

He also spoke of the bond shared by military members and law enforcement personnel through their oaths to defend the U.S. Constitution and serve the nation.

"Please know that when that line is drawn in the sand, we fight, and we fight together," Dicus said. "And go Army!"

This article originally appeared on Victorville Daily Press: San Bernardino sheriff's lieutenant awarded National Guard commendation for wildfire heroism