LACIE SILVA
Editor
The South Pittsburg Mountain Volunteer Fire Department (SPMVFD) recently received a generous donation from the Gary Sinise Foundation, allowing them to provide turnout gear for all their firefighters.
This critical gear, which expires every 10 years, currently costs about $4,500 per firefighter. Additionally, the necessary air pack, mask, and tank, which also have a 10-year expiration, add another $10,000 per person. The Gary Sinise Foundation contributed $71,288 to help cover these expenses, a contribution for which the department is deeply grateful. Lt. Brandon Gilliam, with the assistance of Secretary/Treasurer Barry McDevitt, was instrumental in securing the grant from the foundation. The pair also obtained another grant for $68,275 from the Tennessee Fire Marshals Association to cover the cost of new air packs. In addition to these vital upgrades, the department received a donation of new tires from Bridgestone, which have already been installed on their tanker vehicle.
The SPMVFD extends its sincere thanks to the Gary Sinise Foundation, the Tennessee Fire Marshals Association, and Bridgestone for their generous support in ensuring the safety and readiness of their firefighters.
