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New Truck Dedicated To Terry Scavone At Big Push

Posted: Tue Apr 09, 2024 10:52 am
by Jim O'Bryan
Station Number 3 Dedicated their new truck during "The Big Push" to Firefighter Terry Scavone who not only was the past driver of Truck 3, but also recently passed away from occupational cancer. Yet another risk firefighters carry everyday for us.

The Big Push - is a custom nearly as old as firefighters! It started when the fire trucks were drawn by horses. So that when a new truck came they would have to physically push the new truck back into the firehouse. It has become a good luck/blessing as all new fire trucks are pushed back into the firehouse to protect those that will ride, use and be serviced by that truck.

Here are some photos and comments as I got them.

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The ceremony gets ready to kick off.

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Members of City Hall talk before the start.

Mayor Meghan George got things started...
"• Good morning. It's my pleasure to be here with all of you today to celebrate a time honored tradition of the "pushing in" of our new Fire Engine.
• We are fortunate to have incredibly dedicated people serving in our safety forces in Lakewood, including our firefighter paramedics.
• These brave men and women dedicate their lives to serving the residents of our city, and on behalf of our residents, I would like to say thank you for everything you do.
• It is imperative for our first responders to have the highest quality equipment and vehicles to ensure that they can do their job well and be ready at a moment's notice to respond to any crisis.
• We owe it to our firefighter paramedics and to the people they serve.
• This new engine represents not only a vital addition to the fleet, but also a promise of safety and protection for the community it will serve.
• It is my honor to now introduce Fire Marshall Ryan Fairbanks to kick off the ceremony."

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Fire Truck 3, as Fire MArshall Ryan Fairbanks was up next.

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Ryan Fairbanks ..., "Good morning, ladies and gentlemen, As we gather here today to dedicate and 'push in' this fire truck, let us not only celebrate the rich tradition of firefighting but also extend our gratitude to the individual stakeholders who have played a pivotal role in making this moment possible. From the horse-drawn fire engines of the 1800s to the state-of-the-art vehicle behind me, the evolution of firefighting has been a testament to the collaborative efforts of our community, including our esteemed city council and our mayor.

I want to extend my deepest appreciation to our Mayor, Meghan George, for her leadership and unwavering support of the Lakewood Fire Department. Mayor George, your dedication to the well being and safety of our citizens has been exemplary, and your advocacy for our firefighters has been instrumental in ensuring that they have the resources and support needed to carry out their duties effectively. Your vision for our City's future and your commitment to public service inspire us all.

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To our city council members, finance department, and Public Works Department, I want to express my gratitude for your diligent work in allocating resources and ensuring the City of Lakewood remains on the cutting edge of the fire service. Council President Sarah Kepple, Vice President Jason Shachner, Safety Committee Chair Kyle Baker, Councilman Tom Bullock, Councilwoman Cindy Marx, Councilman Tristan Rader, Councilwoman Cindy Strebig, Former Council President John Litten, Finance Director Peter Rancatore, and Fleet Manager James Holman, your efforts have enabled us to maintain a strong and resilient fire department despite budgetary challenges. Your collaboration and cooperation with our firefighters and city leadership has been essential in ensuring that our community remains safe and secure.

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To our firefighters, your courage and dedication do not go unnoticed. Your willingness to work with our city leaders and community stakeholders is a testament to your commitment to serving our City with honor and integrity. From the days of bucket brigades to the sophisticated equipment and training of today, firefighters have always been at the forefront of protecting our communities. Their bravery and selflessness in the face of danger are an enduring testament to the noble profession of firefighting. As we push in this fire truck together, let us continue to uphold the values of teamwork and unity that define our firefighting efforts.

And to the citizens of Lakewood, I want to thank you for your consistent support of our firefighters and city leadership. Your partnership is essential in ensuring the success of our firefighting and safety initiatives. Let us continue to work together to build a safer and stronger community for all.

Engine No. 3, a 2024 Sutphen 75' quint capable of pumping 2000 gallons of water per minute, symbolizes our collective commitment to public safety. This truck was designed with Lakewood's uniqueness and our firefighters in mind. May its capabilities empower our firefighters to respond
swiftly and effectively to any emergency.

Before we proceed let us take a moment to bless this firetruck and the firefighters who will use it to protect and serve our community. Retired Lakewood Firefighter, Engine 3 driver, and Reverend, James Heffner will now lead us in that blessing."

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Reverend Heffner lead a prayer.

After the prayer, Fire Marshall Fairbanks continued, "I want to take a moment to honor the memory of Firefighter Terry Scavone, who served as the longtime driver of Engine 3. Terry passed away from occupational cancer, leaving behind a legacy of dedication and service to our City. It is fitting that his name is remembered on this new fire truck, a tribute to his years of selfless devotion to protecting the lives and property of our citizens.

In closing, let us push forward with determination and unity, knowing that by working together and recognizing the contributions of all stakeholders, we can overcome any challenge that comes our way. We must always remember the power of collaboration in shaping the future of our community.

Please feel free to stay afterwards to look over our newest asset and ask questions of our firefighters.

Thank you all, and may we always remember and honor the rich history of firefighting in the City of Lakewood.

Captain Dean please take command of Engine 3 ...

Lets push in Truck #3 as is the custom."

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Captain Dean far left calls for all of us to push.

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As I was leaving...

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Council person Cindy Strebig was kicking the tires and giving a thumbs up.

Nice ceremony, and great dedication.

You can see all the photos from the event here: https://lakewoodobserver.com/photoblogs ... -new-truck

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