New Albany Fire/Rescue celebrates a successful year, looks to future

New Albany, MS- 2016 has proven to be a productive year for New Albany Fire/Rescue.  We have been blessed, and success has been good to us, we have seen new members added to the staff, training has been very successful, we are growing with the city, and we introduced the new addition to our fleet, a 2017 Pierce Rescue truck known as “RES1CUE”.

Lets discuss this new addition.  This new truck has been the dream of us here, and it has been on the planning board for over two years.  It was spearheaded by, and is the “child” of, Fire Chief Steve Coker, along with input from each and every member of the fire dept.  It is the first of its kind here, and it has been planned with the future in mind.  This new rescue truck/fire engine will serve the residents of not only New Albany, but the citizens of Union County, and was purchased from the City fire protection funds.  There was so much thought and planning that went into this truck, that it took two years to make sure that it was a “perfect fit” for us.  Each compartment was measured and designed for a specific piece of equipment or tool.  The cab was designed for future growth where up to 4 firefighters may be able to respond not only a rescue call, but also a structure fire, since it was designed to play a dual role.  The city will benefit from the decision to do this by receiving credit for having another pumper that will be available for structure fires if needed.  Add to this, it is also equipped with an on-board foam system that makes it quite beneficial for fuel fires on the Interstate, City and County roads, or at the New Albany/Union County Airport.

Chief Steve Coker awarding Captain Mark Sides with both his 20 year service award, and 2016 Fire Fighter of the year award.

“Working long and hard with Pierce manufacturing representatives, the Mayor, and Board of Aldermen, all of whom made this all come together and happen, Chief Coker and the Board should be commended for thinking of not only today, but the future of our city and county for years to come.” Deputy Fire Chief Mark Whiteside stated.

With a price tag of just over $349,000 dollars, it is the new flag ship, along with being the  pride and joy of the New Albany Fire/Rescue.  Not only should it be our pride and joy, but each citizen of the City should be proud that this piece of equipment is sitting in THEIR city on standby just waiting to come to their aid if needed, but, oh how we hope they never do need it.

During this year’s Christmas Fellowship, there were some milestones celebrated also.  David Williams, and Mark Sides, both Captains with the fire dept, reached their 20 year mark with the dept.  That is 20 years of experience, dedication, and service to the citizens of both New Albany and Union County.  Captain Mark Sides was also selected as the 2016 firefighter of the year by his peers.  New fire fighter Luke Taylor was issued new turn out gear, having just completed 7 weeks at the Fire Academy in Pearl.  Volunteer fire fighters were issued the signature red polo shirts that are now being worn out in public by the staff.

“We as a staff are proud of the steps we are taking forward, and all the milestones that have been reached.  We serve you all with PRIDE, COMMITMENT, DEDICATION,  and ENCOURAGEMENT.”  We invite you to stop by and see what and where YOUR New Albany Fire/Rescue staff is headed.

Merry Christmas, Happy New Year!!

Mark K. Whiteside
Deputy Fire Chief, New Albany Fire Rescue