LYMAN — Engine 83, a shiny new 2015 Pierce Saber Rescue Pumper, was the center of attention Tuesday night at the Goodwin’s Mills Fire and Rescue Department.
A crowd gathered in the fire garage for a dedication ceremony for the new engine, which is replacing Engine 3, a 1987 Ford that went out of service in late 2013. The turnout was impressive, and Deputy Chief Chad Johnston said the department was “slightly overwhelmed” with the number of people who came out to the event that night.
Fire Chief Roger “Rod” Hooper spoke the praises of the new fire truck, but not without first honoring the truck it was replacing.
Hooper said the town had down its homework when purchasing the 1987 Ford, and it served the town well for many years.
“This truck also became part of the family, it became part of the crew,” said Hooper. Everyone in the department has stories about experiences on the engine. “The truck always brought us home.”
In addition to calls, the engine attended funerals, a wedding and parades.
“It served us well, it’s time had come,” said Hooper.
The 1987 engine brought a lot of firsts to the department, and likewise, the new Engine 83 is bringing with it new features, including the first on board hydraulic generator, a new advanced foam system, and LED lighting. The new fire truck is innovative and will technologically move the fire department ahead, said Hooper. Like the truck it replaced, its purchase was well thought out and the engine will serve the town well for many years, said Hooper.
“Thank you to everyone,” he said. “Your support is our motivation.”
Engine 83 was dedicated to the memory of former Fire Captain Steven Dupras, who died in 2013.
The new truck was christened by Chaplain Kevin Jacques, who gave words of prayer and sprinkled holy water on the engine. Jacques blessed the truck, and prayed not only for those who will be using the vehicle, but the people who it will help.
— Staff Writer Liz Gotthelf can be contacted at 282-1535, ext. 325 or egotthelf@journaltribunecom.
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