SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) — Marine Corps Sgt. Gaven Skyles has been recently named the 2024 USMC Military Firefighter of the Year, standing out among more than 700 active-duty Marine Corps firefighters. He’s earned the title for demonstrating superior leadership, technical skill and commitment.
“I’m held in a high regard and that leadership position I take it seriously. My Marines and their safety is in my hands when we are on the fire fight that’s something I take very serious,” Skyles said.
The young Marine joined the military following in his great grandmother’s and grandfather’s footsteps, both whom served in the U.S. Army. His father is a Marine Corps Veteran whose experience inspired him to join the Marine Corps.
“I was going through an old box of pictures actually and I found a picture of my father when he was in Japan and I asked him a question about how it was out there and how it worked and he told me all about his great stories about serving overseas and the job he had,” he said.
Some days Skyles is helping lead the boots on the ground for a fire on base or he could be called out to help investigate aircraft crashes. When he’s not working, he volunteers as an EMT.
“Sgt. Skyles is one of the most dedicated and hardworking NCOs I have had the privilege of working with,” says Chief Warrant Officer Eric Cox. “He has shown unwavering commitment to personal and professional development, consistently striving to improve both himself and those around him in his role as an aircraft rescue firefighter. His contributions extend beyond the Marine Corps, serving as a valuable asset to both the Miramar fire department and the San Diego fire community.”
