ANSON, Texas – Anson Volunteer Fire Department applied for a Department of Defense Firefighter Property
Program grant that allowed them to receive a 2002 excess military truck. Stipulations for receiving the truck are
that it must be painted a nonmilitary color and transformed into a service ready vehicle within 180 days. The
department members partnered with a local welding company and converted the truck into a versatile
multipurpose apparatus.
“Thanks to those who donated their time, labor, and financial support,” said Fire Chief Perry Thomson, Jr.
“Their efforts allowed the addition of the truck with a new slip-on unit that has a 1,200-gallon water tank. It will
be a great asset, helping us get the upper hand on wildland fires or whatever the emergency may be. The truck
has already been used for a couple of high-water rescues.”
According to Thomson, this tough truck has 6-wheel drive and wide tires that will provide traction in the sandy
areas of their farming community. The rural areas heavily depend on the department’s response to protect their
homes, fields, and farming equipment, that can cost thousands of dollars.
Chief Thomson expressed the department’s appreciation for receiving this type of truck and also for the
HB2604 and training grants that Texas A&M Forest Service offers. Thomson encourages the volunteers to train
for the unexpected with safety as a priority.
Any individuals wishing to volunteer and receive training may apply at the fire station on any Monday night at
6 p.m. The station is located at 1102 Avenue I in Anson.
The Department of Defense Firefighter Property Program launched in Texas in 2005, is a program that has
released over 600 retired military trucks to volunteer fire departments across the state. The agency transports the
vehicle from a military installation, performs necessary repairs, and delivers it to the volunteer fire department at
no cost to them. The Texas A&M Forest Service excess military equipment program is sponsored by the USDA
Forest Service, which also oversees the national program.
The Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program, funded by the Texas State Legislature, currently provides
funding for the acquisition of slip-on units that are to be installed onto excess military vehicles, helping in their
conversion into firefighting apparatus.
For more information on programs offered by Texas A&M Forest Service, please visit http://texasfd.com.