Monrovia Volunteer Fire Rescue works to disseminate responsibility by assigning leaders to oversee the day-to-day operations of specific divisions within MVFR called departments.
Department Heads
Lieutenant Grant Thornton has proudly served the Monrovia community as a firefighter for the past 7 years. His commitment to public service is deeply rooted in his extensive background in healthcare, holding a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from The University of Alabama in Huntsville. As a registered nurse, Lt. Thornton brings a wealth of medical knowledge to the fire service, enhancing the department’s ability to provide comprehensive emergency care.
With 25 years of residence in Monrovia, Lt. Thornton is not just a dedicated public servant but also a deeply invested member of the community. His dual expertise in nursing and firefighting makes him an invaluable asset to the Monrovia Fire Department, where he continually strives to ensure the safety and well-being of his neighbors.
Chris Phillips serves as a Firefighter/EMT and Community Risk Reduction Coordinator for the Monrovia Fire Department, bringing over a decade of diverse firefighting experience to his role. His career includes 1 ½ years with Tuscumbia Fire, 2 years with Sheffield Fire as a Firefighter/EMT/Driver, 7 ½ years with Florence Fire in the same capacity, and 2 years as an ARRF Firefighter with Science and Engineering Services (SES).
Chris holds an Associate’s Degree in Fire Science and Fire Service Management and is currently pursuing a Bachelor’s in Fire Administration with a concentration in Fire Investigation from Columbia Southern University. He is also a certified EMT, furthering his expertise in emergency response and public safety.
With 2 years of service at Monrovia Fire and as a resident of Monrovia, Chris is deeply committed to both his department and the community. His extensive experience and dedication to continued education make him a vital asset to the fire service and to the safety and well-being of the Monrovia community.
Cory's career in emergency services spans 14 years, beginning in Los Angeles, California. After completing his fire academy training in Florida, he has since established himself as a Career Firefighter/EMT, currently serving with Columbia Fire & Rescue. His diverse experience and technical skills make him a key contributor to the safety and efficiency of his department.