Fireman
Deceased:
October 31, 2014
Appointed:
11/18/1940
Details on Memorial Service
Pensioned: Service – 01/23/1961 FS45
Donations:
IN LIEU OF FLOWERS, PLEASE SEND DONATIONS TO:
African American Firefighter Museum
1401 Central Avenue
Los Angeles, CA 90012
Brian Humphrey says
I could say so much – but mere “thanks” will never be enough. Arnett’s legacy? An eternal and fitting reminder that great things lie within every “Rookie” who sets his or her sights on doing the right thing. May he rest in peace.
Lt. Wes Buhrmester, Rampart Area says
I was on a detail with LAFD the other day and learned of the passing of Mr. Hartsfield. What a great gentleman! I was driving to a station about three years ago, when I saw the African-American Firefighter Museum was open, so I stopped in. I spoke for an hour with Mr. Hartsfield, who told me of his upbringing, his fight for equality, and some amazing factoids of Los Angeles life in the 40’s and 50’s. He was at work when Pearl Harbor was attacked! He and his co-workers braced for the inevitable attack on the mainland, which didn’t materialize.
What impressed me most was his lack of bitterness despite what he had faced, and his genuine optimism for the future, for all firefighters and police officers. I take that impression with me. Thank you for a great life as a gentleman and a firefighter, and beyond, Mr. Hartsfield. You touched more than you ever knew.
Norman M. Schultz says
I worked on the A shift at 45’s when Arnett worked ion the B shift. We had many interesting talks during that time. While we differed on most subjects integration of the LAFD was not one of them. He was a good and intelligent man who had suffered the pains of prejudice with out bitterness. I wonder how many of could do that. Be safe Arnett.