MOUNT VERNON — Firefighters, community members and city officials brought back a time-honored tradition when they welcomed a new fire truck to Mount Vernon Fire Department’s fleet.
Thursday’s push-in ceremony dates back to the early days of horse-drawn firefighting vehicles.
After returning from the call, firefighters and community members had to manually push the vehicles back into the station.
“Over time, this act has evolved into a symbolic gesture that embodies the unity and dedication of the fire department and its connection to the community it serves,” Assistant Fire Chief Joshua Lester said.
“Today our push-in ceremony retains the importance as a way to welcome the new fire truck in service. It signifies the culmination of months and years of planning and preparing.”
Lester said the ceremony highlights the department’s commitment to the community and capability to ensure public safety.
“That’s our top priority,” he said.
After pushing the truck into the bay, Mount Vernon firefighters used a leather bucket to wash or “christen” the engine.
Before modern firefighting equipment became available, firefighters commonly used leather buckets to carry water.
Lt. Nate Hines hand-sewed the time-era-specific bucket.
“The leather bucket is used as a ceremonial piece to bring the past to the present as a reminder of the evolution of firefighting skills and our ability to serve our community,” Lester said.
“By participating in this push-in ceremony, the community also acknowledges the bravery and hard work we put into you and your community.”
City officials and community members also helped wash down the truck.
New fire truck symbolizes commitment to safety
Fire Chief Chad Christopher said the truck’s arrival has been “three years in the making.”
“This truly is their workhorse. This is their office,” he added.
Christopher said the truck and its equipment will allow firefighters to handle any emergency they come across and respond to every call.
“This truck is an excellent tool for these guys and for the city, but these guys are what make it work,” Fire Department Chaplain Marvin Haught said before giving a blessing.
“This serves as a powerful partnership between us as the city fire department, the city, and you all in the community,” Lester said.
