By DAVE DOMESCIK | Staff Writer

MONTEVALLO – On Saturday, Feb. 15, the city of Montevallo held a ceremony blessing and dedicating the city’s new fire truck to be used by the Montevallo Fire Department.

The ceremony featured multiple speakers and Montevallo city officials to celebrate an important upgrade in the city’s infrastructure.

The new fire engine will replace the oldest truck in the fleet, which was made in 1990.

Montevallo’s Fire and Rescue Service was established in 1927 by a group of citizen volunteers. It now serves as a licensed Advanced Life Support Emergency Medical Services Department, with a high emphasis on training and work ethic.

Fire Chief Brad Davis gave an introduction before City Councilperson Kenneth Dukes performed the blessing.

“This eye-catching engine painted vibrant red and decked out with the most modern technology represents more than an emergency vehicle, it manifests the profound blessings for our lives,” Davis said. “This fire apparatus is not just equipment, it is a lifeline.”

The fire truck was then anointed with holy oil, according to Montevallo Chamber of Commerce executive director Adele Nelson. This act concluded the ceremony.

Nelson summarized the importance of the event.

“It’s not every day our city gets a new fire truck, so the Montevallo Chamber decided to celebrate with a blessing and dedication,” Nelson said.

For more information on the Montevallo Fire Department, visit CityofMontevallo.com/FireDepartment.aspx.