BAKERSFIELD, Calif. — BFD Chief Anthony Galagaza was named "Man of the Year" by the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. Chief Galagaza, led the charge in raising of $33,349 for the Society.

Galagaza is a 28-year veteran with the Bakersfield Fire Department. Before becoming captain he served as a battalion chief. He replaced Doug Greener.

Galagaza is a Bakersfield native. He graduated from Bakersfield College with an Association of Arts degree in Fire Science in 1998. He also has his Bachelor of Arts Degree with Columbia Southern University and is currently working to complete his Master’s Degree in Business Administration.

The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society is a charitable organization founded in 1949 dedicated to fighting blood cancer in the world.