On Saturday evening, numerous members gathered at the station to welcome Volunteers from the Woodlawn Fire Department in Marion, North Carolina. At our last business meeting our membership voted to donate our reserve engine to a department in need in the state after the devastation of Hurricane Helene.

During the evening, we enjoyed dinner and then did a review of the apparatus before signing paperwork to turn over ownership of the Engine. Several members witnessed the signing conducted by President Nelson along with Past Fire Chief Gibson.

Engine 54 was purchased in 1991 under the direction of Past Fire Chief Steve Gibson. It was equipped at the time as a rescue engine and carried numerous rescue tools, had an on board cascade system, generator, and various other equipment. It has a 1500 gpm hale pump and carries 750 gallons of water.

On Sunday morning the North Carolina crew returned to pump the engine, review all components and get a final overview before heading back home with the apparatus. We also loaded the engine with some Amkus tools, extra fire hose, ventilation fans and other small hand tools and equipment that can be given to other local departments in need.

We hope that the engine serves the department well and will be of good use as the area recovers. We also send our well wishes to all of those affected and are still dealing with the aftermath of this disaster.