How About a Brand Spanking New, 2024 Pierce Freightliner, Fully Customized and Outfitted for Fire, Medical Events and Motor Vehicle Accidents, All While Sporting 1,700 Gallons of Water Capacity!
By J. Lee Austin, MD
For the first time in its 55 year history, the Crystal Beach Volunteer Fire Department is getting a brand new fire-fighting truck, affectionately referred to as a new “apparatus” by the crew. Chief Newberry and the team could not be more excited about this much needed addition to the force and as such, are inviting the community to share the traditional Fire Truck Push-in Ceremony on Thursday, April 10:
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The hallowed tradition of pushing the new truck into the station dates back to the halcyon days of horse-drawn, steam-powered pumper wagons, which were common in cities from about 1870-1920. Check out this little factoid from Dennis Smith’s “History of Firefighting in America”:
Not every horse could serve as a fire horse. The animals needed to be swift, strong, agile, obedient and fearless. At the scene, they needed to stand patiently while embers and flames surrounded them. They needed to remain calm while the firefighters fought the blaze. This was the case in all weather conditions and in the midst of a multitude of distractions.
You can bet they don’t make horses like that anymore. I never met one that didn’t freak out at the sight of a mouse, but that’s just me. Probably user error. Anywho, the good news is today’s fearless fire trucks will stand and wait patiently in all weather and all distractions while the blaze is fought. More good news is modern fire fighters don’t have to worry about poopy in their boots. Gotta love that kind of tangible progress.
But seriously folks, many thanks to Doug Saunders, District Manager for ESD #2, and Captain Rob Stevens for taking the time to provide insight and information about their vital activities, which last year included over 300 incidents of medical assistance, many dozens of fires of all kinds, and tons of other actions that simply add up to a vastly safer peninsula.
We cannot possibly thank them enough for the countless lives saved, but this event is an opportunity to look them in the eye, shake their hand and show our sincere gratitude for their work effort, their valuable time and the many risks they take for others. Bravo Team Bolivar, y’all the bomb.
This is sure to be a festive, family-fun event that lets local residents get to see how their tax dollars are being spent for emergency services. I don’t know about you, but I can’t think of a better use for taxes. So let’s all come out and join the Celebration. As an added bonus, they’re serving hot dogs … which you can rest assured will not be burnt. Sorry, couldn’t resist. 😅
Godspeed to the heroes watching over us 24/7/365, ~~ j ~~
“Courage is being scared to death … and saddling up anyway.” ~~ John Wayne
