On Saturday, Apr. 17, at 1:00 p.m., the Johnston-Grimes Metropolitan Fire Department (JGMFD) will welcome its latest engine to Fire Station 39, 6373 Merle Hay Rd., with a blessing; a wash-down; and a “push-in,” with crews pushing the engine into the station by hand.
Each time the JGMFD receives a new engine, a similar ceremony is performed. The new truck will replace the 2001 engine, which will be sold. The proceeds will be used to offset equipment costs within the City’s general fund.
“Placing a new engine in service is certainly exciting for everyone in our department,” said Fire Chief Jim Clark. “Members are very proud of the engines, firehouses and the communities we serve.”
The new engine and equipment are around $700,000. The department looks forward to the longevity this new engine will provide for years to come.
The department would like to thank Deputy Chief Ron Schipper, Captain Tristan Johnson, Lieutenant Joel Decker, Firefighter/Paramedic Chris Ford, and Firefighter/Paramedic Ryan Wheeler for their work in creating this custom fire engine. Each of these members worked closely with Reliant Fire Apparatus to welcome this new engine home.