The Good American Hose Company No. 3, Mahanoy City, dedicated its 2016 Rosenbauer pumper tanker, Tanker 461, during ceremonies Saturday afternoon. The new Tanker 461 replaces a 1987 KME tanker pumper that served the company for 29 years before being sold several months ago.
Tanker 461 is equipped with a 2,500-gallon water tank, a portable dam and state-of-the-art lighting, communications and pumping equipment.
Tony Ashman, company president, opened the ceremonies saying the new vehicle was the result of hard work of company members, lovingly called "The Dutchies."
Ashman said that although a large portion of the cost of the new tanker pumper was made possible through an Assistance to Firefighters Grant through the Department of Homeland Security, the company has taken the responsibility of the remaining expense.
Also speaking were U.S. Rep. Matt Cartwright, state Sen. David G. Argall, R-29, and state Rep. Neal P. Goodman.
Commenting on the gold and black colors of the new vehicle, Cartwright said, "It's a happy day in Mahanoy City ... it's a happy day for everyone who's a Golden Bear."
The vehicle color scheme was selected in the colors of the Mahanoy Area School District's Golden Bears -- black and gold.
He also commended the volunteer firefighters, not only from the Good American Hose Company but volunteers across the country.