Photo by Cheri Kinley

Mike DuRee—an 18-year veteran of the Long Beach Fire Department—was named today as the City’s next Fire Chief, replacing Deputy Chief Mike Sarjeant who has served as Interim Fire Chief since March.

Currently, DuRee is the Interim Deputy Chief responsible for the Fire Prevention Bureau and was chosen for the Fire Chief position after an intensive search that began when former Fire Chief Alan Patalano retired earlier this year.

“After competing with leaders in the Fire Service in a nationwide search, I am proud and humbled by the opportunity to lead such a fine organization,” said new Chief Mike DuRee. “My family and I have deep ties to the City of Long Beach and the Long Beach Fire Department. I look forward to leading the organization as we continue our tradition of excellent service and move into the next chapter of the Long Beach Fire Department.”

DuRee is a Long Beach native and fifth-generation City of Long Beach employee who began his career with LBFD in 1994. Since then, he has held a variety of positions including Firefighter, Paramedic/Fire Fighter, Captain, Battalion Chief and Assistant Chief. As a former Captain with the Marine Safety Division rescue boat program and public safety dive team member, he also has extensive knowledge of the maritime environment.

“Mike DuRee has extensive experience in the fire service, and an unmatched history in the Long Beach Fire Department,” said City Manager Patrick West.  “He is an exceptionally capable leader, and will serve the City and the Fire Department well as we confront the challenges of the future.”

Update (July 3, 10:21AM): The Post received the following quote from Mayor Bob Foster’s office in regards to the new Fire Chief’s appointment. “Chief DuRee is a proven leader and an innovative thinker who is uniquely well-suited to head the Long Beach Fire Department in these challenging times,” Foster said.