Published November 10. 2017 02:45PM
West Penn Fire Company’s vision for a new firetruck has come to be a realization.
The department recently took delivery of its 2018 KME Predator Panther Custom Engine, explained fire Chief Dennis Fritzinger Jr. at Monday’s board of supervisors meeting held at the West Penn Fire Company.
Fritzinger said the department is extremely proud of the new addition to its fleet, and thanked the township and its residents for helping make the truck possible.
“Two-and-a-half years ago, this was just a dream,” Fritzinger said. “Now to see it here, it’s even better.”
Fritzinger noted that the fire company will host its monthly All U Can Eat Breakfast from 8 a.m. to noon Sunday.
“Fundraising is always ongoing, the hall is always rented out,” he said. “We greatly appreciate everything everybody does for us.”
Board Chairman Jim Dean returned the favor.
“We want to thank you and the volunteers,” Dean said. “We truly appreciate all that you do for us.”
Fritzinger said the engine comes equipped with a 1,500-gallon-per-minute pump; 1,000 gallons of water, and 20 gallons of foam.
He said they took out a 10-year loan through Mauch Chunk Trust Company, and will use funding from the township, as well as funds generated through fundraisers.
Members of the West Penn Fire Company proudly stand in front of their new 2018 KME Engine. Pictured are, front, from left, Tim Kistler, Jen Fritzinger, Tyler Resch, Connor Evans. Back, Dennis Fritzinger Jr., fire chief; Jeff Bradford, assistant fire chief; Josh Holmberg and Wayne Leone. TERRY AHNER/TIMES NEWS
A look at the West Penn Fire Company’s new 2018 KME Predator Panther Custom Engine. TERRY AHNER/TIMES NEWS