Fire Captain Eric J. McGurn is retiring on Aug. 31, leaving behind a lifetime of battling blazes aboard the base.

"Every day was a new adventure,” said McGurn, 33-year fire veteran. “From floods to wildfires, it was always a good feeling to know that I was able to help in a time of need.”

McGurn began his firefighting career with the U.S. Forest Service at the age of 19, only four days after graduating with an associate’s degree in fire science.

“It was amazing really, I graduated from college on a Thursday and had a job on Sunday,” recalled McGurn.

Since 1978, McGurn has served at every fire station and held nearly every position in Camp Pendleton’s Fire and Emergency Service.

“The day I picked up engineer it felt like they stacked a load of bricks on my shoulders,” remembered McGurn. “We used to rotate into the position, but when it changed I felt the responsibility.”

The Oceanside-native was promoted to fire captain in 1987 and has held that position at several stations since.

“I would like to think I made a difference in the lives of every firefighter that has passed through my stations over the years,” McGurn said. “Especially in an effort to provide only the best public service to a military community we owe our daily freedoms to.”

McGurn’s son, Kyle continues the family firefighting legacy serving as a firefighter with the Air Force while stationed in Germany.

“I may have helped those in their time of need, but it’s because of them I have been able to raise and provide for my family,” said McGurn as his eyes watered up. “My son wouldn’t be where he is today without the support the base provided us.”

Fellow Camp Pendleton firefighter and friend of 11 years, Michael Lee recalled his memories with McGurn.

“I remember watching his son Kyle learn how to ride his bike around the bay when I first got here,” said Lee. “Eric is one of the best fire captains I have ever worked for and it is sad to see him go.”

In addition to his firefighting, McGurn has spent the past 11 years volunteering his time teaching new employees about the Thrift Savings Plan at the Human Resource Office.

“Captain McGurn has dedicated countless hours to his men and leads by example,” said Christopher M. Bayles, firefighter. “The emphasis he puts on education is something I admire.”

People often forget about the firefighter until they see a cloud of smoke, but they are there day-in and day-out, everyday, said McGurn. And they will continue to be long after I’m gone.