By Steven R. Mullins
Allingtown VFA
Allingtown Volunteer Fire Association Lieutenant Sam Manuel has been hired by Amentum, an organization that supports the National Science Foundation and the Arctic Exploration and Research Program.
Manuel will be a firefighter/emt with the Antarctica Fire Department at the McMurdo Station. “I chose to do this, because it’s an incredibly unique opportunity that allows me to see some of the world, challenge myself and hopefully make me a better and more resourceful firefighter/emt.” Said Manuel. “I made the decision long ago that I wanted to continue to seek out new challenges and never stop learning for as long as possible, while doing the job I love.” He said.
A 2023 graduate of the University of New Haven, Manuel holds a B.S. degree in Homeland Security and Emergency Management. He will turn 24 years old on Aug. 31.
A native of Warrenton, Virginia, Manuel attended Kettle Run High School. He started volunteering with his local fire department, the New Baltimore Volunteer Fire and Rescue Company 1110 when he was a 14 year old cadet. He earned his Firefighter 1 and 2 and Hazardous Materials certifications by taking nine month night school academy courses during high school and became an operational interior firefighter at 16 years old.
Manuel earned his Emergency Medical Technician certification through the Commonwealth of Virginia at age 18.
“Sam will be missed as an asset to our recruitment team with the younger members.” Said Center District Fire Commissioner and Allingtown Volunteer Fire Association Chief John Carew.
In addition to firefighting, Manuel is a trained cellist and played in youth orchestras in his native Virginia.
Manuel’s journey to the South Pole will begin Aug. 26. He has a seven-month contract with Amentum that can be extended to 14 months, if he desires.
“I am grateful to the AVFA for providing me an opportunity to come in and rebuild the department as it has allowed me to learn more about myself and leadership while also challenging me by putting me into my first officers position. I hope to be able to return in the future after I get back,” he said.