A 2009 HME Ahrens-Fox pumper/tanker is the latest acquisition for the Gerald-Rosebud Fire Protection District (GRFPD).

Battalion Chief Hayden Schoenfeld says it’s a major upgrade for the district.

“This apparatus gives us the flexibility to operate as both a tanker and a pumper, significantly improving how we respond to emergencies,” he reports. Schoenfeld continues, “In the event that one of our other fire apparatus goes out of service, this truck is able to fill in due to its versatility.”

“We made the fiscally responsible decision to purchase this truck used from Plattekill, N. Y., Schoenfeld reported. He noted new apparatus costs continue to rise beyond what many small districts can afford, including the local district. He believes this truck, if purchased new, would cost easily over $1 million. The truck arrived ready to roll at cost of $325,000.

The truck was purchased through a lease-purchasing agreement with First State Community Bank (FSCB). The GRFPD board of directors plan to have the truck paid off in a few years.

Linda Weber, local branch manager with FSCB says the bank  is excited to partner with GRFPD District on their purchase of this new equipment. “FSCB is proud to offer customers a competitive Government Lending Program and are honored to have the opportunity to be a strong financing partner,” she says.

The newly acquired truck replaces an early 1990s truck. It has a 3,000 gallon water tank (1,000 gallons more than the old truck)and a 2,000 gallons per minute pump. These are critical attributes in a rural fire district.

It has a five-man cab while the old one could only carry two passengers on a bench seat.

According to Schoenfeld, the truck offers flexibility in serving as both a tanker and a pumper. In the event one of the other fire apparatus goes out of service, this truck is able to fill in.

The recently purchased truck will be stationed at Firehouse #2. It will be available for use across the  district’s124 square miles that includes Gerald, Rosebud, and areas in Franklin/Gasconade counties.

All of this will result in improved fire protection for the district. This can contribute to a lower ISO rating which could reduce insurance costs for the community.

In the two months it has been in service, it has already proven its worth. While fighting a fire involving hay bales, the extra water capacity was crucial in keeping the fire contained and eventually extinguished.

“This truly is an asset for our community and the region,” Schoenfeld believes. He notes the GRFPD believes it could not have been done without the trust, confidence, and support of the Gerald and Rosebud communities.

“Thank you all for your continued support of our ever growing district,” he concludes.

You can further support your local fire department by attending their 2026 Fireman’s Picnic, Saturday, May 30, beginning at 11 a.m.