Cristian Arriaga (left) of the Dixon Fire Department was recognized as the first Firefighter of the Year at Celebrate Dixon on March 8. He was honored by Mayor Steve Bird for his dedication to public service.

DIXON, CA (MPG) - Cristian Arriaga, formerly of the Dixon Fire Department, was recognized as the first Firefighter of the Year at Celebrate Dixon on March 8. Arriaga was recognized for his dedication and service to the community, earning him this honor.

Arriaga, a Dixon native, began his journey in the fire service as a reserve firefighter with the Dixon Fire Department in 2018, where he quickly became known by his peers for his outgoing personality and unwavering dedication to excellence and public service.

Reserve firefighters are volunteers with many of the same responsibilities as career firefighters, including firefighting, rescue and prevention, as well as equipment operation and maintenance to protect the lives and property of citizens. Eligibility for volunteer service requires basic fire training and Emergency Medical Service (EMS) certification. Arriaga’s eagerness to serve and grow in the department led him to take on numerous additional responsibilities, often volunteering for various department initiatives and public outreach. 

Arriaga’s commitment to the community and the fire service earned him the Allan F. Benefield Award in 2020, recognizing his significant contributions to public safety through his service and volunteer work. The award is in remembrance of Benefield, a former Dixon fire marshall known for his years of community outreach and public service.  

Cristian Arriaga’s contributions also received special recognition from Lois Cross, 2004 Citizen of the Year and representative for state Senator Christopher Cabaldon.

Arriaga transitioned into a career firefighting role in early 2021, where his dedication deepened. In 2022, Arriaga was awarded the Cody Robben Life Saving Memorial Award among several of his peers. The award, in remembrance of James “Cody” Robbens, recognizes the efforts of those who have brought someone back to life when clinically considered deceased. 

Interested in learning and growing alongside his compatriots, Arriaga consistently supported new department members with their needs. Arriaga lives in Dixon, where his involvement with community events and fostering friendships remains present.

According to the Dixon Fire Department’s mission statement, the organization aims to provide quality and reliable service to the community through leadership, education and training. Members are expected to show dedication, integrity and a readiness to ensure the safety of citizens. Although no longer an employee of the Dixon Fire Department, Arriaga’s contributions and commitment match the organization’s core values. For these reasons, Arriaga has been recognized as the 2024 Firefighter of the Year.