Jacksonville’s newest fire engine was put in service last night.
The 100 foot ladder truck was purchased from Pierce in Wisconsin, and firemen trained on the truck last week.
Fire chief Matt Summers says three rings of the bell signify the honoring of the past, celebrating the present and committing to the future in the commissioning ceremony.
He says the ladder goes down, as well as it goes up, and it’s safer for the firemen.
Summers thanked Jacksonville Mayor Andy Ezard, and the current and past Jacksonville aldermen.
He also saluted retired fire chief Doug Sills for his efforts to get the ball rolling four years ago.
Summers says this is engine number 1331, but he has asked the public to suggest a name for it.
Former police chaplain Alan Bradish offered a gift to the fire department, a replica of an old time fire ladder truck that he and his wife purchased several years ago in Grafton.
