Stockdale keeps on truckin’ with high-tech fire engine
December 23, 2008 by FF184
photo by Wayne Ray For The Valley Independent
By Stacy Wolford
VALLEY INDEPENDENT
STOCKDALE – Jim Georgagis remembers when the Stockdale Fire Department bought a brand new, fully loaded American LaFrance fire engine.
The 1963 vehicle, with a five-speed manual transmission, was the department’s first pumper.
“It was a beauty, still is,” said Georgagis, a life member and past president of the fire department.
After 45 years of service, the classic convertible fire engine will be retired to make room for a new, computerized engine that is set to arrive Jan. 3.
Longtime Stockdale fire Chief Al Marcy said the department hasn’t purchased a new truck since 1982.
“We’re all excited about the new engine,” Marcy said.
Assistant fire Chief Tom Wilkinson and a few other firefighters are planning a Dec. 28 trip to Iowa, where the truck is being manufactured and customized – to make sure it meets all specifications.
The engine is a Toyne heavy pumper capable of pumping 1,500 gallons of water per minute.
The 1963 truck cost only $33,000 and pumped 750 gallons of water per minute. It was the first fire engine with air brakes.
Marcy said the engine cost $330,000. The department received a $270,000 grant through the Federal Emergency Management Agency.
To make up the difference, the department has conducted a number of fundraisers including dances and banquets. A 50th anniversary Stockdale oldies dance last summer was a tremendous success, Marcy said.
A New Year’s Eve oldies dance at the fire hall will feature DJ Jim Dudas.
“We want the public to know that this new fire truck benefits everyone,” Marcy said. “We appreciate all of the support we have received.”
As the firefighters prepare for the newest addition to their fleet, the department’s board of directors had to decide what to do with the 1963 American LaFrance – sell it or keep it.
The decision was unanimous.
“We’re keeping it, mostly for sentimental value,” Georgagis said. “But it still runs, and it’s in great condition.”
Life member, past chief and president Ralph Rozzi, 88, is happy the department is keeping the old engine. He was the fire chief and served on the truck committee when the new pumper was ordered.
“That truck was the best one around,” he said.
Marcy said the department will bring out the classic engine for parades and other events.
For tickets for the New Year’s Eve oldies dance, call Judy Todd at (724) 938-7950.
http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/valleyindependent/s_604049.html
In regards to Stockdale VFD. You might wish to ask your attorney the meaning of Libel. You posted some things which are false and can be proven as such.
Washington County’s 911 Records will refute your claim as to call volume and mutual aid assists.
The “Bacteria” issue – was attacked aggressively as soon as the problem became apparent, and they were issued a letter of cerification by the Health Department to show for it.
Being you’re obviously mis-informed, it is also news to you then, that they ‘do’ hold training sessions – they just aren’t broadcast to the country. Also – the rentals are picking up. They never stopped even with the media converage of their issue. People had faith in the department – and they weren’t let down.
Get your facts straight before you run your mouth. I hope Stockdale sues the pants off you. Don’t think you can hide behind an e-mail, anyone with half a brain can trace it.
FYI, the original comment that Sam was responding to was deleted at the request of the poster of the original comment.