FRITCH, Texas — Fritch Volunteer Fire Department recently added a converted Heavy Expanded Mobility
Tactical Truck to their fleet.
“Fritch is on the banks of the Canadian River with broken terrain that can be difficult to maneuver,” Fire Chief
Ed Adamson said. “This truck has the power and traction to get up and down those ravines.”
The truck was painted a nonmilitary color, equipped with a tank, hose and reels making it ready to fight fires as
well as transport water.
“In 2014, we had the Double Diamond wildland fire that burned 1,500 acres and consumed 260 structures,” said
Adamson. “If we ever have a similar situation again, we will be prepared. With the help of this vehicle, we can
supply water to other trucks or use it to fight the fire.”
The DoD Firefighter Property Program provides excess military equipment to fire departments and emergency
service providers. Launched in Texas in 2005, this program has released over 300 retired military trucks to
VFDs across the state to help them better protect lives and property. The USDA Forest Service oversees the
program, and Texas A&M Forest Service directs it.
“The TFS grant programs make it possible for the smaller VFDs to have the tools and training that they need to
respond to emergencies in their community and surrounding area,” Adamson said. “It is the best thing that the
state can do to help the VFDs.
To learn more about this program, visit http://texasfd.com.