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Saturday, December 4, 2010

Rescue 607, Station 6 & Other Updates

Some updates on both side of the bay. In Loudoun County Virginia, the Middleburg VFD sought to get out of the rescue truck business. As a result, their 2007 Pierce "Dash" was removed from Station 3. Restripped and relettered it has been assigned as Rescue Squad 607 at the Aldie VFD Station 7 going in service November 16. (Thanks to Mike Sanders for use of his photo) The new squad is housed in a small shed built in front of the currently cramped Station 7 that is slated for replacement. The squad is cross staffed by the engine crew or available volunteers. See Firepics.net for more complete coverage and additional photos.

In Wicomico County, the Parsonsburg VFCo moved ot its new Station 6 on November 7. The new address is 33030 Old Ocean City Road just east of the old firehouse. See previous postings for my most current photo otherwise check out Parsonsburgfire.com. In Dorchester County, the East New Market VFD has also moved to its new Station 21. It is believed located at 4020 Route 392 south of town. Check this link EastNewMarketvfd.com for details.

As an FYI for Historic Works I have posted on the storefront my latest Ebook The Chronological History of Washington DC and its Fire Protection from Early Beginnings to 1871. This includes updated info on the volunteer companies and the Navy Yard's protection also covering Georgetown up through the Washington City FD and Government FD (Civil War) years onto formation of the DCFD. Some images are included . If anyone would like to allow use of their images in this or any other work please email me. Check out the strorefront at this Link

Wednesday, November 24, 2010

Its Coming Along

An update on the progress of Ocean City FD Station 5. As you can see it is progressing nicely into a "big house" for the West Ocean City area. This off-island station is staffed entirely by the department's volunteers as most live nearby. For those unfamiliar, it is being built on the site of the previous station on Kyser Point Road north of US 50 in West Ocean City. Station 5 is assigned Engine 1, Engine 2, Tanker 19, Tanker 20 and Snorkel 11 (that is slated for replacement) plus Ambulance 5 a reserve. No doubt old Engine 8 the '53 Ford, American parade piece will likely live here as well. Visit our storefront for an Ocean City FD Roster.

Wednesday, November 10, 2010

New PGFD Battalion Structure

Effective October 24, PGFD has realigned its field battalion structure. In a nutshell, the Seventh has been eliminated becoming the new First. The old First has been spread out over the Second, Third and Fourth. The station breakdown by battalion is as follows.

BC 801 Sta: 20, 36, 40, 45
BC 802 Sta:   6, 16, 18, 19, 28, 33, 39, 43, 46, 48
BC 803 Sta:   5,   8, 17, 23, 26, 27, 29, 37
BC 804 Sta:   1,   7,   9, 13, 22, 30, 38, 44, 55
BC 805 Sta: 21, 24, 25, 32, 42, 47
BC 806 Sta: 10, 11, 12, 14, 31, 34, 35, 41, 49

Chiefs at stations underlined. BC 803 & 805 are on-duty 24/7 all others on day work.

The North, Central and South Bureau Chiefs (Majors) have become shift duty chiefs deignated "Operations Chief 800" each with other specified responsibilities. There is also a Field Major for Advanced EMS. Special thanks to Jim Sullivan and Curt Elie for keeping me in the loop on this.

Friday, October 15, 2010

New Station Openings

The Washington DC suburbs are seeing a rash of new station openings. In Montgomery County Maryland, Station 34 opened on September 11 in the East Germantown Area. Known as the Milestone Station it is located at 20633 Boland Farm Rd off Route 355. Boland Farm is actually the old Route 118. Assigned is Engine 734 one of the many new Spartan Crimsons, a new Ambulance 734 plus Truck 734 currently from reserve. The rumor mill has either Tower 729 or the recently deactivated Truck 712 TDA going there. Soon to open is the rebuilt Takoma Park Station 2 still at 7201 Carroll Ave. This has a new and larger 3-bay apparatus room seperating the living sections that have used some of stone taken from Sligo Creek for the original 1928 castle-like station. In addition to Engine and Ambulance 702 living in a nearby temporary facility, this will likely bring back Truck 702 eliminating Truck 716 that replaced Truck 712 in July. It is uncertain if we'll see a return of Truck 701 so stay tuned.

In Prince George's County, Tuxedo-Cheverly Station 22 closed at the end of August to be replaced by the new Saint Josephs Station 6. Located at 2901 Saint Josephs Drive at Ardmore-Ardwick Road in Sprindale this was scheduled to open on August 29. The dedication ceremony took place August 31 with Reserve Engine 22 as the new Engine 806, joined by the re-assigned Rescue Squad and Technical Rescue plus Ambulance 806 and Battalion 801 (now 802). Issues with the building prevented it from actually going in service with the displaced units from Station 22 placed at nearby stations. Station 6 formally went in service on October 26. Station 22 will return to service by next spring with an engine or the quint and an ambulance. Stay tuned on this one.

To the south in Prince William County Virginia the new River Oaks Station 23 also opened September 11 at 16530 River Ridge Blvd east of US 1. Not too far from Potomac High School this, a No 3 substation of the Dumfries-Triangle VFD and Dumfries-Triangle RS, splits the gap between Station 3 and Station 12. It is assigned Engine 523 using what was Engine 503B plus one of the ambulances from Station 3 EMS.

In Washington DC, plans to renovate the circa 1916 built Cleveland Park firehouse on Connecticut Ave & Porter St NW were accelerated when issues were found necessitating its closure.  On November 9, Engine 28 and Truck 14 moved north to Engine 31's with Ambulance 28 east to Engine 21's. Renovation plans have reportedly been approved but no bids solicited.


For updated station apparatus rosters covering most of the above new stations (one for Prince Wiliam is in the works) go to Rustys Rosters Storefront or click on the links list at right.  

Monday, September 27, 2010

ATTENTION ALL STATIONS AND PERSONNEL

Finally after a long and arduous jorney, Rusty's Rosters formally launches a NEW online storefront. Detailed up to date rosters and histories are now available in downloadable Ebook pdf format. The sites shopping cart feature allows you to browse and easily select multiple items before check out. Payment is fast and secure through Paypal. No more shipping, no more lost in the mail, no more expensive printing or CDs (those remain available as special order). Check back often as many new works are to be added. Click on the link at right or use the web address as follows http://RustysFireRosters.com. Be sure to bookmark us as well!

Thursday, September 16, 2010

Lower Shore Station News

Here's some local goings on that have been sitting in my 'to do' box far too long. Back in May, the Ocean City FD vacated Station 5. That is their West Ocean City house on Kyser Point Road north of US 50. Opened in 1974, this metal building with brick facade was expanded in 1991. The assigned engine and probably one of the tankers are next door at the Public Works Yard. The truck, other tanker and possibly reserve ambulance and boat are at Trimper's warehouse reportedly somewhere off Route 611 near the Ocean City Harbor area.

The vacated firehouse was subsequently razed. Construction is currently underway to build a new and much larger 5-bay station on site. This will certainly be far more accommodating of assigned units and the many volunteers running out of this house. This general area is where most of the OCFD's membership live and there has long been talk of a sort of alternate Headquarters here. Of course during the transition period when the OCVFCo merged with he OCDES and became the OCFD, the volunteers threatened at one point to leave the island (Stations 1-4 to the city) setting up from this location.

In other news just to the west in Wicomico County, the Parsonsburg VFCo Station 6 is about to move to its new more accommodating digs just east of the previous on Route 346 east of Parsonsburg Road. This 6-bay metal building has two drive through bays on left plus a large community hall at rear. Expected to open soon, this replaces their outdated circa 1927 facility they have so long occupied. For more on this, log onto parsonsburgfire.com.

Continuing west into Dorchester County, it seems the East New Market VFD Station 21 is also moving soon to a new 5-bay metal station. This replaces their much smaller 1948 occupied brick building at 101 Main Street at Railroad Avenue. That building was previously Neighbors Tavern, People's Service Station and originally Millenson's Department Store built about 1913 or 14. The location of the new house is as yet confirmed, believed to be south of town along Route 392. More to follow on this one. For info log onto eastnewmarketvfd.com.

Thursday, August 26, 2010

COMING SOON

An announcement from the RR Technical Department. Coming to a PC near you a new website & storefront featuring Rusty's Rosters. Works are now available in downloadable e-book (pdf) format so you may select and download getting your roster right then and there. No more waiting for processing and mailing. No more lost in the mail. No more CDs. Works will include oldies and new ones including station apparatus rosters, histories and other related works. This web site launch is expected within the next week or two. Stay tuned here for further announcements and the site address.

Saturday, August 14, 2010

Berlin FCo at 100

Sunday August 8 was the 100 Year open house held by for the Berlin Fire Co of Worcester County. The company's organization meeting was called by the Mayor and Town Council on January 28, 1910. Before that, the town was protected by an informal if you will brigade its roots traced back to the purchase of a hand pumper in late 1894. In August 1895, the hand pumper was destroyed in one of many fires to strike Berlin. A bucket brigade is all that remained until the current entity formed. (Photo by me)


Their first motorized was a 1912 (seen also '16) Oldsmobile "Autocrat" that reportedly popped its tires responding to the Great Fire of Pocomoke City in 1922. In 1924 came the 1924 Mack "AB" that was restored back in 1983 now frequenting the parade circuit. There have been many other rigs in the fleet since. A picture of a picture (above)  reveals an interesting line up at the 1924 built station annex (today's Berlin Planning Dept) at 3 Bay Street. This is behind the 1916 occupied station (today's Police Dept and Town Hall) at 10 Wiliam Street. As identified L-R is a snub nosed '39 Ford, unknown body as E2 later to the Newark VFCo. A '49 Ford, American 750-gpm as E6 and a '57 Chevy "5000", American FM-750gpm as E5. (Berlin FCo photo, unknown photographer).

Another interesting pic of a pic (again Berlin FCo photo unknown photographer) shows L-R a late 50s Caddy in unique white over green livery for A-2 and their first ambo a '63 Caddy as A1 in service in 1964. This building is recognizable but has large bushes in front. The grey stone  above the door reads "FIRE DEPT 1924".

Days events included a visit by Trooper 4 plus an auto extrication demo. That's my youngest who I can assure you is trying to figure out how to start the thing. (he does that). It seems a few collectable parts of the mutilated car came home as did  the usual assortment of rubber gloves and medical masks taken from the ambo. (Photo by me)


Above left is the latest Brush 602 a 2009 Chevy "K-3500HD", Winsteads 250gpm (Hale) /300gwt/5gft.  At right is a last look at Tanker 6 (previously 605) a '81 Mack "MR-696", Amthor 750gpm/4300gwt. This was reportedly rescued from a life as a trash truck will be replaced soon by a larger tandem rear axle Spartan, Rosenbauer 1500gpm with 4500gwt. As told this old girl still runs great (just like an old Mack ) and her tank still holds its load quite nicely. (Photos by me)

The Berlin FCo currently operates from this their No 1 house at 214 N Main Street in Berlin. This was dedicated in June 1967 and added onto in 1992. Station 2 opened in 1990 and is at 8427 Route 611 just north of Route 376 at Lewis Corner (east of Berlin). Station 3 opened in late 2008 early 2009 in a rented building on the north side of US 50 addressed 10823 east of Friendship Road Route 452 northeast of Berlin . All time suppression apps roster follows. The '24 E1 and '33 E 2 were open cab all the rest enclosed. Berlin FCo also operate A1, A2 and A3 all International, PL Custom ('06, '04 and '07 vintage) plus several utility, command and fire police vehicles.

E1 1924 Mack AB 500/300
E2 1933 Chevy chemical
>Showell VFCo
E3 1938 Mack E-75 500/300
E2 1939 Ford, 500/         
>Newark VFCo
E6 1949 Ford, American 750/
B2? 1954 Dodge M-37 (Power Wagon) military style brush >unknown when in service or unit number.
E5 1957 Chevy 5000, American FM750/500?
E6 1960 Ford F-800, American FM750/750
The 600 prefix company # came to be with central dispatching circa 1965.
E607 1967 Ford C-950, American 1000/1000
B602 1972 Chevy K-30 brush truck
600R1 1975  Mack MB-487B, Swab
>Ocean City still IS as R18
E604 1974 Mack CF-600 (1st canopy cab)
>Bakerton Jefferson Co WVA since sold
E603 1977 Mack CF-600 1500/500 + 50 TeleSqurt
>Truck 603 at Sta 3.
K605 1981 Mack MR-696, Amthor 750/4300
E607 1988 Mack CF-600, Swab 1500/750 @ Sta 2
>being rehabbed
B602 1989 Chevy K-3500 pick-up 250/250 brush
R6     1993 E-One Cyclone 20' walk-around >Had issues and was replaced with a newer near identical model in 2000. Tip check the raised cab area for difference.
E608 1998 Spartan Gladiator, Quality 2000/750 (1st 4dr)
@ Sta 3 now Sta 2(temp)
R6     2000 E-One Cyclone walk-around
To 6  2003 Spartan Gladiator, Quality 2000/300 RK Aerials 100' MM
E604 2006 Pierce Dash 2000/750/20 Extrication
B602 2009 Chevy K-3500 pickup 250gpm/300gwt/5gft

Of course any additions and corrections are welcome. Thanks to long time member and past Chief Engineer Billy Taylor for sharing his expertise on the fleet. Happy 100th Birthday Company 600 thank you for the hospitality!   


Monday, June 14, 2010

MSFA Convention Report

Some quick takes from the MSFA Convention in Ocean City. These are from the front parking lot not the inside convention hall. First up is the Pocomoke VFD's new Tanker 1 the Intertnational, Biouvac 750gpm with 3000-gallon tank for Lower Worcester County. From Wicomico County the new Tanker 12 from the West Side VFD is in attendance (see shadowey photo right) this a tandem rear axle International, Seagrave 1500gpm with at least a 3000-gallon water tank.

Rosenbauer has much to show this year including the new Engine 231 for Urbana in Frederick County. This is a big rig (see photo left) with 2000gpm pump, 750-gallon water tank and 30-gallons of foam. From the Baltimore County order, the latest Spartan, Rosenbauer for Engine 13 (36562) is on hand as is Medic 60 (36187) from Parkton a '09 Freightliner, Wheeled Coach.

Rosenbauer also built the utility style body for the Branywine Hundred of New Castle County Delaware's new Brush 11-1. This is matched to a four-door '09 Ford "F-550" with Delmarva Pump Center (DPC) skid with a 20hp Hale pump, 200-gallon water tank and 10-gallon class A foam cell. Next to it is the new Brush 36 (or 836) from Baden in PG County this a '09 Ford "F-350" with DPC skid with Hale 20hp and 150-gallon water tank. (Photo above left w/ 11-1 in background)

As a surprise new delivery to me we have a new Seagrave "Marauder II" 1750-gpm triple for Indian Head Engine 92 in Charles County. Cecil County Truck 4 from Cecilton has on hand their tandem rear axle 2010 Seagrave "Marauder II" quint with 2000-gpm pump and 100-foot rear mount ladder. From Pierce is the '09 Velocity 1500gpm with 750-gallon water tank for Engine 272 of Baltimore County's Wise Avenue VFCo. The Leonardtown VFD of Saint Mary's County has their new  Engine 11 a 2010 "Arrow XT" 1250gpm with 750-gallon wate rtank and 30-gallon foam cell.

A favorite of mine is the latest Frederick Tanker 7 a tandem rear axle, '09 Mack "Granite", Pierce 1250gpm with 3000-gallon tank from the Middletown VFD (photo right).



One other noteworthy attendee is the Rosenbauer tanker demo on a new International "Lone Star" chassis. I am sure this has been well photographed at various evenets but as you can see I could not resist either. Reminds me of what was it the late 80s Stephen King film "Maximum Overdrive" where Emilio Estevez and co are held hostage in the truck stop by demonic alien controlled trucks .

In other nearby news, a new Ferrara Intruder has made it to Mount Vernon in Somerset County as Engine 607 and Rehobeth Beach in Sussex Delaware has a new Pierce Contender for Engine 86-9. This looks to be replacing one of their last surviving Mack CFs (sad, sad).  For those not able to attend I hope this is at least a worthy update and for those yet to arrive this is an appetizer and I'll likely see ya the parade on Wednesday or maybe yea, the place above. Remember, Ocean City is a drinking town with a fishing problem. 

Friday, May 21, 2010

Bloxom Progress

Well folks albeit late here's an update on the Bloxom VFCo of Accomack County (Eastern Shore) Virginia. Some background. Back in January 2006, fire struck Station 6 while they were out on another working fire. The firehouse was gutted with two ambulances including one new not as yet in service delivery destroyed. See this Link for details and photos.

After, the company briefly moved down the road to Parksley VFCo Co 7 then to a pole barn across the field opposite the railroad tracks from their original firehouse. [recent photo at left] This is correctly addressed on Bull St (Rd 2507) at Parks St (Rd 2505).  By summer, a metal shed had been built close by behind the town office at 26129 Mitchel Rd (Rte 187) at Hall Rd this the "EMS Station". A number of other departments came to their aid donating various  apparatus. A private ambulance carrier loaned them an ambo for a time.

In my latest visit, a new firehouse is under construction finally on the site of the previous [photo at right] at Rte 316 and Rte 187 . As you can see, it's progressing and since this was shot on May 1 is certainly farther along. Here's what Co 6 is running these days.

Engine 6-3 '84 Hahn canopy cab 1250/500    xKeansburg NJ
Engine 6-4 '99 Pierce "Saber" 4dr cab 1250/500
Tanker 6-7 '95 International "4800" 2dr, S&S 750/1800
Squad 6     '83 GMC (7000) 2dr, Saulsbury 22'-walk-in    xGoldsboro MD, Laurel DE
Amb 6-0    '10 Chevy "C-4500", Medix
Amb 6-1    '06 Ford "E-450", Medix    xWindsor VA RS 
Amb 6-2    '94 Ford "F-350", Medtec  xIsle of Wight County

I have not seen for some time their '95 Dodge "Ram 3500", M&W attack minipumper know as Rescue 6. Also gone is Amb 6-0 a '95 Ford "F-350" Life Line I believe came from Caroline County MD EMS. Some other previous rigs include an ex Salisbury Maryland '72 ALF "900" (E6-4) and the '70 ALF "Pioneer" (E6-5) ex Onancock that went to the Gibson Island Brigade then the Lake Shore VFD in Anne Arundel County Maryland. To keep up with FD happenings on the Eastern Shore of Virginia, check out this new site easternshorefire.com. Till next post.

Friday, May 14, 2010

Station Apps Roster & History Book Update

I first off I want to thank everyone for their orders and ongoing support. Also want to update everyone on goings on with the rosters and histories. I have for some weeks been working on a web site with all works rosters and histories available as downloadable e-books. Select, pay, press button and bingo you have it then and there. Seems the old man is not as techno savvy as once was hence the site is as yet "operational". I still plan to get 'er going hopefully within the month (mid June) so stay tuned. My first error was choosing the wrong hosting service as the site did not do what I wanted it to.

As for the rosters, we are updating all for this spring DC Metro Maryland, Baltimore-Annapolis, NoVa Metro and Southern Maryland. Plan as well to be coming out with a Lower Delmarva covering Worcester, Wicomico and Somerset Counties including of course Ocean City.

In the history book department, we have a number of new releases pending. A General History on Alrington County and Fairfax County plus smaller works on History of Ladder Trucks in Fairfax County plus History of Rescue Trucks and Special Units in Fairfax County. The latter two, albeit short and sweet also have photos. Hopefully some pics will also be added to the other works as well. Stay tuned for history works on PG County as well. For now, purchases are still at the Ebay Store but do stay tuned as were gonna get one line eventually. -Rusty

Tuesday, May 4, 2010

Delmarva Parade

With the long awaited onslaught of spring comes the array of events and parades sometimes making it a tough choice as to which I will attend. The weekend of May 1 brings me either a long ride to Winchester or the as I chose closer Delmarva Association parade held this year in Parksley Virginia. For those unfamiliar with the sho' thats in Accomack County about an hours drive. The Delmarva parade while not huge often brings less frequently seen rigs out of the back corners and bays of some stations. As for this year in Virginia, departments in both Accomack and Northampton County are often receipients of many a used rig. With all that said, lets get on with I saw.  Also a word of caution I had a camera failure and had to use my "stand in". Its lousy as digitals go hence some shots are lets just say "not great".

First off few Maryland Departments were in attendance no surprise. Princess Anne with their new Ford brush truck, Marion with engine, Easton with engine and Denton with Velocity rescue. From Delaware was Delmar's ladder quint, the '50 ALF engine from Ellendale plus the '70 Cadillac ambulance from Gumboro.

Most surprises if you will were as expected from Virginia. First off Tasley recenlty sold their ex Lewes Delaware International, Saulsbury rescue. UPDATE: As per Mike Sanders and Jerry Puryear this has gone to a film company in Vancouver BC. In its place they have added (reportedly in service April 2010) a Pierce "Lance" rescue engine. (photo at right) UPDATE: Thanks to Mike Sanders I now know why this was so familiar as its from the Ashburn VFD&RS in Loudoun County. A '96 Lance with 1250-gpm pump 500-gallons of water and 40 of foam. Looks a little different in red!


Greenbackville brought their new Tanker 2 and yes I photographed it twice. Both shots came out awful so sorry 'bout that I'll have to make another trip. This striking new water wagon is a tandem rear axle 2010 Kenworth "340", Freedom Fire 500-gpm with 3000-gallon tank. It like a recent new ambo there has a slate grey roof over red.

Farther south on US 13 is Cape Charles known for its various used apparatus over the years. Several new additions there including a rescue squad that happens to be the '84 Ford "C-8000", EVF outta Denton in Caroline County (photo left). This was replaced in 2008 so I'm not sure exactly when this one made it south.


Also in Co 15's line-up is another Maryland piece the '77 International "S-2654", '99 New Lexingron with front mount 1000-gpm pump and 3000-gallon brushed elliptical tank. Tanker 15-8 (photo at right) last ran with the Pittsville VFCo in Wicomico County and originated with now thankfully gone orange paint scheme from Allegheny Township Pennsylvania.

The last surprise from the Cape is a '88 E-One "Hurricane" 95-foot tower with 1500-gpm pump. (photo at left) UPDATE: Thanks again to Mike Sanders who confirms this as from Independence Missouri east of Kansas City and birthplace of Harry S Truman. It has 300-gallons of water and serial number 6453. Cape Charles has run other used aerials over the years including an all red open cab waterfall grill '45 Seagrave midmount and another possibly ex Norfolk aerial the details of both not at my disposal. (Anybody out there who knows more do tell) Yes they stil have their ex Virginia Beach '84 Duplex, E-One as Engine 15-3 described as their "favorite". Reportedly their ex Richmond '84 GMC, Grumman mini-pumper 15-5 is gone.

Nearby Cheriton, is running as Tanker 14-4 the tandem rear axle, '88 Pierce "Lance" 2000/2500 that originated from Sharptown in Wicomico County. This actually ran with Dagsboro in Sussex County from September 2005 until sometime in 2009. Sorry no shots on this one. UPDATE: And yes they still have their Oshkosh, Snorkel from Monmouth New Jersey pics came out bad on that one too!

If you have any input on any of these or other mentioned rigs please post.

Visit here again soon as I'll have another post on the goings on at Bloxom.
 -Rusty




Monday, March 29, 2010

Eastern Sho' Updates

Okay folks I'm gonna take a departure from my usual ramblings to post some updates on new apparatus here on the Eastern Shore. Lets start south and work north. First off in Accomack County Virginia, Greenbackville has a new Tanker 2-7 that is a 2010 Peterbilt "340", Freedom Fire Equipment 500gpm with 3000gwt. Placed in service March 24 this replaces their '78 Ford "L-900", '86 LTI FM750/3000 that originally had a Sanford body.  

Just north Pocomoke has reportedly placed in service as Tanker 1 a 2009 International "Workstar", Firouvac 750gpm with 3500gwt. This replaces their '79 Ford "L-9000", 4-Guys that I am told has 30,000 miles on its odometer. No info on my last visit to their web site. Of note, this is the fourth new tanker in Worcester County over the past few years two others from 4-Guys one from Deep South. The next one expected is a mammoth tandem axle Spartan, Rosenbauer 4500gwt for Berlin.

Back to the US 13 corridor, Salisbury added at last years end a new Haz-Mat 1. This is a 2009 Freightliner M-2-112, Hackney tractor trailer painted black over red. It is similar in size to another haz-Mat recently going to the Rescue Fire Co of Cambridge in Dorchester County. Unknown if this will replace the '01 outfitted '93 International, Hackney beverage truck running as Haz-Mat 2. That may become a support maybe not. Seems too Salisbury's web site is down so no info there but you can see an image on Fire in the Hole Photography.

West out MD Route 12, the West Side VFD of Bivalve has a new International "Workstar", looks to be a Seagrave for Tanker 12. There were no specs on my site visit but I'm guessing the tank is about 3000gwt. This replaces Tanker 1207's '79 Ford "L-900", '92 4-Guys FM750/4200. In other Wicomico County news, Fruitland it seems has gotten rid of fianlly Engine 308 their canopy cab '82 Ford "C-8000" Pierce TM1000/1000 ex Engine 301. No idea where it went though. On order, Mardella Springs and Allen are both expecting new tandem rear axle, four-door KME "Predator" 1500gpm 2500gwt tankers each with foam 30-gallons for Mardella and 50-gallons each of A&B for Allen. See Antietam Fire for drawings and pics. Just south of Allen my favorite place Mount Vernon has a new Ferrara engine on order. I'm sure viewing it let alone getting a picture will require a strip search and Homeland Security pass -LOL. (this applies to a weird visit I had there a few years back where I thought I was gonna wind up at the Gitmo for some water boarding)

Farther north in Caroline County, Greensboro has a new Engine 604 that is a Pierce "Velocity" 1500gpm with 1000gwt. This replaces a '87 Seagrave "HB" 1250gpm/1000gwt. Havn't been buy Caroline 600 of late to see if the Seagrave is still in service. On all of these I have no info on where any of these replaced rigs are destined for. I have also heard a tanker out of Cecil County has gone to Lakes and Straights in Dorchester County. Havn't made that trek in a long while so no confirmation. Any additions corrections updates are welcome. -RG UPDATE: In the forgot to mentions, Princess Anne has a new 2010 Ford "F-350" pick-up brush truck specs to follow. Farther north Cheswold VFCo in Kent County Delaware has a new Pierce "Impel" 1500-gpm rescue engine replacing thier long serving '84 ALF, Saulsbury rescue squad.

Tuesday, March 2, 2010

2010 Blizzard Casualties

As most are certainly aware, this winter has brought record snowfall to the region. Sadly this has negatively impacted various fire rescue departments whose stations became casualties of the weather of you will. The most reported is of course the fire that struck Baltimore County FD’s Dundalk Station 6 about 2:30 am on Wednesday February 10. This may actually have been unrelated to the weather. The two-alarm blaze destroyed a brand new as yet to be in service not even with hose on it Spartan, Rosenbauer for Engine 6 as well as Brush 6 and Medic 106. A National Guard HumVee there for the storm was also heavily damaged but reportedly started up upon its removal. Engine 61 made it out and battled the flames. Engine 6 and Medic 6 were recovered after still in usable condition. The apparatus room portion of the station is destroyed. This was part of a 1988 renovation addition with the original portion built in 1949 as the living area that survived unharmed. After, Engine 6 moved about a mile southeast to a Technical College with Medic 6 at Eastview Station 15 and Engine 61 and Medic 106 (using a reserve) at Edgemere Station 9. Reportedly, Engine 6 has since returned home the unaffected living portion of the station used their apparatus parked outside. Plans for a portable building on site reportedly were scrapped as it would take as long as getting the materials to have the apparatus bays rebuilt. This time I'm certain their will be sprinklers. As of this writing no cause has been determined.

At about 10 am on Thursday February 11 fire struck the Sykesville Freedom District FD, Carroll County Station 12. This was caused by a ruptured gas line the result of the roof collapsing from the heavy snow. All apparatus was removed and went to work however after three alarms the social hall portion of the firehouse is lost. This station opened in 1972 as Sykesville Station 2. In 1981 it was decided to consolidate the two stations. In spring 1985 Station 1 on Main Street in Downtown Sykesville closed moving to the new and larger station built on site of the previous building. The station is again expanded in 2001. Oddly the old Station 1 also burned back on February 24, 1969, reportedly destroying two engines. There is some damage to the living areas while all apparatus is still in station with tents used for some living functions.

To the south in Virginia, the weather brought problems to several stations there as well. In Fairfax County, Baileys Crossroads VFD Station 10 (410) opened in 1972, had their apparatus area roof collapse in the middle of the night on February 8. This pinned all the rigs underneath including Engine, Truck, Medic and Ambulance 410 plus a boat that excepting the latter will all likely need suspension work. By day break, nearby Alexandria FD Station 6 (206) on Seminary Road gets evacuated briefly for similar concerns fortunately no collapse occurs. A check of Fairfax County’s Annandale VFD Station 8 (408) lead to the same however no apparatus is able to return and the crews are “camped out” in tents within the attached social hall. This station is belived first built in 1943 with several additions the last in 1998. Meanwhile, Baileys Crossroads Station 10 (410) is back and running Engine 410 (usinga reserve) on site its crew living in the command bus. Truck 410 using a reserve lives at Seven Corners Station 28 (428) with Ambulance 410 at Jefferson Station 18 (418) and Medic 410 part of the tent city at Annandale VFD Station 8 (408). Farther west in Loudoun County, a weakened roof also hit the 1977 built Middleburg VFD&RS Station 3 (603). This caused Engine and Medic 603 to move briefly to the nearby Upperville VFCo Fauquier County Station 5 (1105) until the roof was properly shored.

Farther east, the Townsend VFCo, New Castle County Station 26 had on Wednesday February 10 the original 1973 portion of the their station collapse. Fortunately this metal building was used as the social hall with no apparatus or other parts of the firehouse harmed as they occupy a new portion built in 2003. Thankfully no one was hurt in any of these incidents. All things considered losses were pretty minimal. What a winter! -RR

Wednesday, February 10, 2010

Fickle Falls Church

Been a few since the last entry as we’ve been inundated with the most snow I think has ever hit the Lower Sho’. I was about to ask the county to please take my children back to school. Guess they will be going until July at this rate. Understand, this place is not equipped for a snowpocalyse as the biggest plow is a Ford "F-250". During the first inundation (weekend of 1/30 -10") they quite plowing before it was over. I called and asked why and was told “cause its snowin!” Stupid me. In any event, here’s an expanded upon topic I was involved in on one of my favorite bulletin boards. The question asked was regarding the Falls Church VFD in sort of Arlington County Virginia. Were they actually first part of Fairfax County? The short answer is yes sort of but do read on and you’ll get the long and short of it.

The town of Falls Church incorporates as such on March 30, 1875 its territory mostly in Fairfax County but a portion also within Arlington then Alexandria County. In 1898, the Falls Church VFD organizes the same year the Cherrydale VFD forms in Alexandria County that county’s first beyond Alexandria. Falls Church VFD begins service in summer 1899 with two hand pulled hose carts and a ladder wagon kept in three private garages about the town.

In 1918, the company adds its first motorized a Ford “Model T” chemical engine kept at the local lumberyard. In January 1925 a house fire leads to a calamity when the Falls Church VFD tries to respond but is unable as the “apparatus” is missing or as in the case of the chemical engine buried under piles of lumber. The department promptly re-organizes incorporating February 27. They then place in service a new Republic chemical engine housed in a new one-story, single-bay, cinder block station on Washington Street (Lee Highway) opposite their later and current home. In 1920, Alexandria County is re-named Arlington after the Custis-Lee estate last occupied by Robert E. Lee and turned into a national soldiers cemetery in honor of his cough, cough, “service to the union”. That year records suggest the Falls Church VFD may have added a 1916 city service chemical ladder possibly from the District of Columbia FD.

On September 17, 1935, the Arlington-Fairfax Volunteer Fireman’s Association votes to dissolve and create two separate associations for each county (there were only 5 fire compaiues in Fairfax then Falls Church not included). On December 14, the Arlington County Fireman’s Association begins at which time a station company numbering system is implemented. This assigns numbers alphabetically Arlington VFD No 1, Ballston VFD No 2 etc. The Falls Church VFD joins both associations and is designated No 6 in Arlington County. The company also moves that year across the street to a one-story, two-bay brick and block believed flat roofed building at 555 Washington Street. In 1936, East Falls Church is retro ceded back to Arlington County leaving Falls Church with only its Fairfax County portion.

On July 15, 1940, the first paid personnel of the Arlington County FD (there already is a paid Chief Fire Marshal) report to duty including at the Falls Church VFD. In 1943, the firehouse is expanded a sort of second floor added. In 1948, Falls Church becomes a city separating entirely from Fairfax County as a stand-alone municipal entity. The fire department remains largely volunteer with Arlington County paid personnel assigned. In 1941, the Falls Church VFD assists in sponsoring formation of the Baileys Crossroads VFD. Under rules of new fire company formation in Fairfax County, this at first must operate as an auxiliary or No 2 station of the Falls Church VFD. They begin service in 1942 later meeting all criteria (apparatus, staffing and financial) to become the stand alone Baileys Crossroads VFD in Fairfax County.
 
In 1950, the Falls Church VFD adds an open cab forward new ALF “700 Series” 75-foot midmount aerial ladder. This is believed to replace their by then motorized ‘16 city service chemical ladder that reportedly goes to nearby Baileys Crossroads VFD in Fairfax County. I've seen no photos of this at either company so lets call this info "un-confirmed". In 1951, it is believed company numbers are assigned in Fairfax County the sequence based on when companies incorporate. McLean VFD is No 1 with Vienna VFD (that formed before but incorporated later) becomes No 2. The Falls Church VFD that often runs into Fairfax County is assigned No 6 as in Arlington County. That year, the Falls Church Police Boys Club begins ambulance service quickly turning the operation over to the Falls Church VFD. While not confirmed the first ambulance may have been an all-white Ford panel van as photos show they did run one. Somewhere in the late 1950s early 1960s (I’m guessing here) they built a shed out back as the fleet had gotten quite large (4 engines, 1 truck, 2 ambos) and the old two-bay station has limited space.
 
In early 1973, the Falls Church VFD for whatever reason withdraws from the Fairfax County Association remaining solely with the Arlington County Association. Station 6, for some time staffed with Arlington County FD career personnel ends automatic response into Fairfax County doing so only upon request. Tensions mount with talk of forming a Falls Church City FD. Later that year, the Arlington County Department enters into a comprehensive mutual aid pact with Fairfax County whereby the closest company is now called regardless of boundary. This is the beginning of the NoVa Mutual Aid system with new numbering system to follow. (Falls Church becomes company 76 an Arlington County number designation) About this period full-time medics are assigned to the ambulance Rescue 76. As for the number "6" in Fairfax it is still unused. As a sidenote to this, No 7 was back then assigned to OWL VFD of Prince William as they ran across the river a lot before the Lorton VFD formed in Fairfax. That number later went to the Fairfax County FRS Training Academy.
 
On July 14, 2000, the Falls Church VFD moves into a new and spacious two-story, five-bay brick peak roofed Station 6 built behind their previous old house on Washington Boulevard. At first, the apparatus exits from the rear until the old station and rear apparatus shed are razed the front paved into a parking lot. This facility a vast improvement over the previous is funded and owned jointly by Arlington County, the City of Falls Church and the Falls Church VFD.

Coming soon from Rusty’s Rosters a detailed History of Arlington County and its Fire Rescue Service. This will be available on CD and hopefully soon as a downloadable E-book. See above links to order or connect here at Bayside Boyz. -RG

Friday, January 15, 2010

The Potomac Fire Department

Anyone who has ever been by Alexandria Fire Department Station 2 (202) on Windsor Avenue has undoubtedly noticed it says Potomac Fire Department above the doors. As I am sure some have asked, “How is this, I thought I was in Alexandria?” Read on my friends as this firehouse has something of a convoluted and interesting history.


This area of Alexandria Virginia known as Del Ray and Saint Elmo were laid out back in 1894 along the then new Washington, Alexandria and Mount Vernon trolley line at where it crossed the Virginia Midland Railroad leading west (this was previously the Alexandria, Loudoun and Hampshire and later became the Southern Railway Bluemont Line then Washington and Old Dominion Railway’s Bluemont Division). A popular racetrack and gambling spot also opened here situated between the two communities. At the time, this area was in Alexandria County not Alexandria City. In 1902, the Washington and Southern Railroad (later Richmond, Fredericksburg and Potomac) that followed the Potomac River opens its Potomac Rail Yard east of here. Del Ray and Saint Elmo quickly become home to many railroad workers. In spring 1908, Del Ray and St Elmo incorporate as the "Town of Potomac” the first and only municipality within Alexandria County beyond of course Alexandria City.


In 1920 Alexandria County becomes Arlington County named after the Custis-Lee mansion Arlington House taken during the Civil War for use as a National Soldiers Cemetery. Late in October 1924, the Del Ray Engine and Motor Co. organizes in Potomac promptly beginning service with a new combination chemical pumping engine housed in a church shed on Windsor near Commonwealth Avenue. Within a month, the Saint Elmo V.F.D. also organizes also beginning service promptly with a modified “Model T” chemical hose wagon housed in shed off Commonwealth Avenue. On November 6, both companies are placed under oversight of a new town agency titled the Potomac Fire Department (FD) with Del Ray designated Engine Company 1 and Saint Elmo as Engine Company 2. This entity has no chief or paid personnel as the two volunteer compaies exist under it answering to the town council.

Following a meeting of January 11, 1926, the Del Ray and Saint Elmo volunteer companies consolidate titled as the Potomac Truck and Engine Company Number 1. Both engines remain labeled for their respective community. Soon after, the department consolidates physically, moving to a new two-story, three-bay brick station on Windsor Avenue. This has the Potomac Town Hall on the second floor with the town jail on the bottom behind the apparatus bays.

Effective January 1, 1930, the southern portion of Arlington County beyond Four Mile Run is annexed into the City of Alexandria. This includes the Town of Potomac and the Potomac FD that becomes Alexandria Fire Department (FD) Station 2 as then there is only a Station 1, 4 and 5 the original Company 2 the Sun Fire Company long disbanded. This is the last annexation to affect Arlington County as by ruling of the Virginia Supreme Court, annexations and municipal incorporations are no longer permitted.

Soon after, AFD assigns a new tractor drawn 100-foot ladder truck to Station 1. This displaces their 1918 ALF city service truck that is re-assigned to Station 2 as Truck 2. That year, the Alexandria Rescue Squad also forms from Potomac Station 2 adding an ambulance then the only one in the city. In 1935, an open cab new ALF city service quad arrives for Truck 2.

By 1948, the Alexandria Rescue Squad expands by now running Rescue 1 and 2 that are both ambulances adding Rescue 3 an International, Oren rescue truck and Rescue 4 a trailered boat. In 1954, Truck 2 gets the ’51 ALF 100-foot midship from Truck 1 their city service quad going to the Annandale VFD in Fairfax County.

In 1973, Truck 2 from Station 2 is deactivated and the aerial truck sold. No ladder has run from station since. In 1974 volunteers on all Alexandria Rescue Squad ambulances are replaced by career EMTs. Then or soon after, Rescue 2 is removed re-assigned to nearby Station 4. In March 1977, the Alexandria Rescue Squad becomes the Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Division of the Alexandria FD with units staffed and equipped as transport capable Advanced Life Support (ALS) Mobile Intensive Care Units (MICU) still called rescues. In about January 1979, the unit designation “Rescue” is changed to “Medic”. On December 1, the medic unit from Station 4 returns to the Potomac Station now known as Medic 52.

In October 1983, the Departments new Hazardous Materials (Haz-Mat) Team goes in service at Potomac Station 52 assigned a ’76 Chevy “C-30” with shop modified Morysville 10-foot utility body. Designated Haz-Mat 52 this is staffed by assigned personnel of Wagon 52. About that time the Potomac firehouse adds one of the more unique engines to serve the Alexandria FD. Wagon 52 gets a canopy cab-over new Ford “C-8000”, E-One 1250-gpm triple with a 40-gallon foam tank and a large 1000-gallon water tank. The need for this is the Del Ray area suffers low water pressure and the company is also first due to the Potomac Yards. In mid 1989, Haz-Mat 52 gets a new GMC, Hackney as well as its own driver. In late 1992, Engine 52 is replaced by a new piece with standard for the department 500-gallon water tank.


In 2006, Potomac Station now designated 202 is assigned a new Mass Casualty Unit. On November 1, 2009, the new Station 209 opens just northeast in Potomac Yards. The station is located within a multi-story 64-unit apartment complex addressed at 2800 Main Line Boulevard. This large and currently stand alone building is south of Glebe Road and east of US 1. It is assigned Engine 209 and Haz-Mat 209 both from Potomac Station 202 plus afoam trailer and new spill response truck. The building also has a glass mural along the US 1 side windows showing the old ’35 ALF Quad of Truck2. Recently renovated "Potomac Fire Department" Station 2 remains open home to Medic 202, the Mass Casualty Unit and Safety Officer with room for various reserves. This is no doubt one of the more unique fire service history stories in Northern Virginia. Both photos by the author.

Saturday, January 2, 2010

Washington Navy Yard

For those who follow the fire service in and around the nations capital, the Naval District Washington Fire Department (NDW FD) is the city’s largest federal fire department operating within the city from three stations from as many federal facilities. To clarify, since October 3, 2003, this agency has been titled the Naval District Washington Regional Fire Department as it has assimilated various other naval facility departments in the outlying counties. These however continue to use their respective numbering systems as per each county. Back to the original if you will NDW FD within the capital city. In 1996, the DC Fire &; EMS Department assigns the NDW unique numbers for off-base response (Engines 41-43, Truck 21). These in 2001 are adopted by the NDW as their appropriate station unit designations. Station 1 or 41 is the NDW Headquarters located at Bolling Air Force Base in Anacostia. Home to a rescue engine, tower and foam units plus reserves this prior to 1980 was a separate department assimilated under the NDW FD after the original Station 1 at Anacostia Naval Air Station closes. Station 2 or 42 is at the Washington Navy Yard on the western bank of the Anacostia River. This is the oldest componant of the NDW FD operating a single engine company. Station 3 or 43 is farther south at the Naval Research Lab home to a rescue engine and haz-mat unit.


So what of this unique department and its history? There are as I have discovered some variances in actually when fire protection began especially at the Washington Navy Yard.




The  is the nations first deeded to the US Navy in September 1799. It lays  along the Eastern Branch of the Potomac River (now Anacostia River) on the south side of the proposed new nations capital. The buildings and ships in August 1814 are purposely set afire as the British are bound for Washington ultimately setting the rest of the city and yard ablaze. After the city and the Navy Yard are rebuilt however the mission at the yard changes. In May 1815, the Washington Navy Yard changes from a basic naval base to a shipbuilding and ship-fitting facility adding civilian employees. More shops sheds and wharves follow the greatest added in 1823. It is about which time it seems mechanized fire protection begins there as well. This department or brigade is probably manned by enlisted men aided by volunteer civilian workers.




The earliest record of this is found in John G. Sharp’s, History of the Washington Navy Yard’s Civilian Work Force 1799-1912 found on the site Navy Yard History. Under the section “Daily Station Log” on page 11 it is on the cold and windblown morning of Thursday January 18, 1827, fire erupts in Alexandria overwhelming its three volunteer fire companies. As the blaze spreads, outside help is called bringing companies from Washington City and the sole Georgetown company. The Navy Yard is called about noon sending their two “suction engines” via boat across the river to the then sister city of Washington (Alexandria and what later became Arlington County were part of the federal Territory of Columbia until 1840). The Great Fire of Alexandria destroys some 40 buildings but is quickly stopped with the out of town companies including the Navy Yard engines released by 3 pm.




The next mention of the Navy Yard fire protection comes from 100 Years of Glory, the 1972 Yearbook of the District of Columbia Fire Department. On the late morning of September 24, 1877, fire erupts in the attic of the large 4-story US Patent Office today’s National Portrait Gallery bound by West 7th and 9th as well as North “F” and “G” Streets (today all in NW). As described this apparently is the first big test for the young DCFD. Within ten minutes of arrival of the Box Alarm, a General Alarm follows bringing the entire 5 engine and 1 truck DCFD plus the Navy Yard. As the fire rages out of control, this becomes a day long battle as companies are also called from Baltimore some fighting a nearby stable fire ignited by embers from the original fire. In 1878 it is believed the Navy Yard adds its first steamer an Amoskeage.




In 1906, the Navy Yard brigade moves to its second and current firehouse in Building 122 near the 8th Street SE Gate. In 1918, the nation embroiled in Word War I a permanent runway and hangars come to Anacostia Flats that is named Anacostia Field a combined Navy and Army facility. While not confirmed it is believed their crash fire brigade likely began then. Just south, the aviation section of the Signal Corps opens an adjacent facility called Bolling Field that also begins its crash fire brigade.

As seen in photos of William Killen’s Navy and Marine Corps Fire Apparatus, the Navy Yard in the early 1920s is motorized running with an American LaFrance triple an Ahrens Fox triple piston pumper plus a hose wagon of unknown make. The Washington Naval Research Lab opens July 2, 1923, along the Potomac River on the far south end of the city. The mission of this facility is the production of communications equipment, directional finding devices high frequency radio and underwater sound propagation and sonar nets. Again it is believed a fire brigade is begun then its firehouse in Building 72. In 1933, the Bolling Field crash brigade moves to its current multi-bay firehouse in Building 5.

In 1940, the Navy Yard becomes a civilian staffed fire department. In 1942, Anacostia Field expands and is re-named a Anacostia Naval Air Station a training base for Naval aviation. It is home of Navy flight test operations, the US Naval Receiving Station Anacostia and the US Naval Station Anacostia Annex that includes training schools, laboratories and barracks for the Navy Yard. A secondary airfield also opens to the north in Beltsville Maryland. During this period it is believed the crash fire brigades at both Anacostia Naval Air Station and adjacent Bolling Field move away from enlisted personnel becoming civilian departments. In 1943, the Anacostia Naval Air Station brigade assigns a No 2 engine company to an adjacent weapons arsenal.

In late 1945, other changes come as World War II ends the nation and its allies the victors. The Anacostia Naval Air Station brigade No 2 Engine at the weapons arsenal is deactivated. The mission of the Naval Research Lab expands into areas of applied research while in December the Navy Yard becomes known as the Navy Gun Factory. In 1948, Bolling Field becomes Bolling Air Force Base under the new military agency. The next year, the Navy Gun Factory becomes the Naval Weapons Plant that along with the Naval Research Lab are placed under a civilian director.

In the mid to late 1950s the Anacostia Naval Air Station FD, Navy Yard / Weapons Plant / Gun Factory FD and Naval Research Lab FD are all placed under the new Naval District of Washington Fire Department. About this period helicopter flights begin from the White House and as a result, one of the Navy's early “MB-5” crash trucks is loaned to the DCFD housed with Engine 16 Truck 3 on 13th Street NW. In 1962, fixed wing aircraft flights end at Bolling Air Force Base and Anacostia Naval Air Station as operations move east to the new Andrews Air Force Base in Camp Springs Maryland. In July, the Washington Navy Yard Annex opens at the Weapons Plant / Gun Factory. On July 1, 1964, the Weapons Plant / Gun Factory again becomes titled the Washington Navy Yard with most of its old facilities and factories to be turned into office space. In 1978, vehicle extrication capabilities are added with jaws placed on Engine 2’s new Seagrave “MB” 1000-gpm at Navy Yard Station 2. In September 1980, the NDW FD adds its first ladder truck to the more accommodating Station 1 at Bolling Air Force Base. Truck 1 as designated is a “Cincinnati” canopy cab-forward built by Truck Cab Manufacturers on a Spartan chassis with Pierreville body and 100-foot Thibault rear mount aerial ladder.

In 1990, the NDW enters the Hazardous Materials (Haz-Mat) business adding early summer as its response vehicle a two-door new Pierce “Dash” with 16-foot walk-in body placed at Station 3 (43) at the Naval Research Lab. In 1994 or 1995, the NDW FD adds two new KME “Renegade” triples. Engine 1-1 at Bolling AFB adjacent to Interstate 295 is equipped as a “rescue engine” while the other for Engine 2-1 at the Navy Yard has jaws for extrication duty. Engine 2-1’s displaced extrication piece moves to Engine 3-1 at the Naval Research Lab. That year Truck 1 undergoes a glider rebuild by Fire Apparatus Unlimited. It returns the frame and ladder all that are retained as it has a new aluminum four-door Duplex cab and new body. In 1998, Engine 3-1 at Naval Research Lab receives a new E-One “Cyclone II” rescue engine. In 2003, Truck 21 gets replaced by Tower 21 a tandem rear axle, four-door new ’02 Piece “Dash” 100-foot rear mount tower quint with 2000-gpm pump.

Anyone who has more info to share on this topic is encouraged to post a reply. For your very own History of Washington DC and its Fire Protection or Washington DC Fire Apparatus History that includes the NDW FD and other federal departments plus various other works see the appropriate link for Rusty’s Rosters.