Linglestown firefighters dedicate tanker truck

Linglestown Fire Company celebrated the acquisition of a tanker truck Sunday afternoon with an old-fashioned housing ceremony at the new fire station. Pictured above are Linglestown firefighters pushing the truck into its bay. (The photo is black and white because I unknowingly messed up the setting on my camera.)

Tanker 35 was purchased to better equip the firefighters to respond to fires in the upper section of Forest Hills, which does not have public water service, said Fire Lieutenant Sean Harp. The tanker is also used to assist neighboring fire departments, he added.

Fire Chief Bill Payne presented a plaque to Lower Paxton Twp. Supervisor Bill Seeds in recognition of the township’s help to fund the purchase of the new truck, as well as other major acquisitions over the years.

The ceremony included the presentation of updated membership cards to lifetime members of Linglestown Fire Company. The following members were recognized (first year of membership is shown in parentheses): George Bell (’83), Norm Carl Jr. (’57), Craig Coyne (’75), Chuck Hoffer Jr. (’82), Mike Kraska (’84), Bill Twilley Jr. (’77), Brian Woodall (’76), and Jack Whary (’74).

On a personal note, I got a ride to the fire station in the tower truck, and helped to push the tanker into the station with other residents, including several future firefighters. Unlike the "real" firefighters, we had some help from the tanker’s engine.

In other fire company news, firefighter Mark Boland has completed tests to earn his Paramedic Certification. Congratulations and thanks for your service, Mark!

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You can support fire company by coming out to BINGO every Tuesday evening at the red brick building, 7 pm start. Cash prizes and great food is provided by the Ladies Auxiliary!!

Also, be sure to purchase tickets for the SUPER TRAVEL RAFFLE. You could win a trip of a lifetime for as little as $10. Drawing will take place on Christmas Eve.