Holland Fire House Welcomes Aerial Truck

The Northampton Township Volunteer Fire Company welcomed a new addition to its apparatus on Monday, Sept. 10, at the Holland Fire House.

Fire Chief Adam Selisker explained that the housing event is a tradition that dates back to the 1800s. During that era, horses pulled fire engines, he said. Horses weren't able to back up and push the fire engine into the stations, so the community would come out and help push the truck into the station.

And now it's done ceremoniously, with the help of the fire truck's engine, Selisker said.

"This truck was a long time coming," Selisker said.

The new aerial truck has been in service by the fire company for roughly 10 months, and Selisker said that it should be in service for at least 25 more years.

Many volunteer firefighters, notable members from the community and more attended the special event to welcome the truck, but also to show support for the firefighters and the company.

Supervisor Chairman Frank Rothermel talked about how the dedication and sacrifice of firefighters has increased not only since the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks, but since he was young.

"The public doesn't give enough credit," he said.

Selisker echoed that sentiment.

"The folks in the township have no idea how hard you work," he said.  "We have the best fire department in the county. You're a super dedicated group."