Local firefighters recently received new protective clothing made available through a Homeland Security Grant. From left, are, first row: Charles Bryant, Jeb Clayton, Jamey Lee, Jeff Lewis, Craig Brackin, Richard Baggett, Joe Burke and Howard Seibert; second row: Michael Turner, Wesley Aaron, Theron Cates, Corey Royal, Chad Fordham, Chris Cranshaw, Grady Lambert, Wally Sasser Sr., Jay Clayton and Jamie Davis; third row: Harrison Morris, Howard Black, Gene Miller, Jimmy Lee Davis, Floyd Chance, Justin Bragg, Corey Reeves, Louis Perryman, Roy Harris, Steve Hoerner, Brad Dryer, Johnny Fleming, Charlie Lanier, Andy Brinson, Wally Sasser Jr., Ronald Waters, Byron Newton, B.J. Sasser and Debra Perryman. (Photo contributed) The North Jenkins County Volunteer Fire Department (NJCVFD) firefighters recently accepted delivery of new protective clothing that was made available through a FEMA/ Homeland Security Grant.

Firefighters from Station #3 (Oak Hill); Station #7 (Birdsville); and Station #9 (Perkins) now have state-of- the art gear. The $87,000 grant al- lowed the department to catch up with the Millen and South Jenkins volunteers in their emphasis on personnel safety.

These grants have allowed the fire service in Jenkins County to remain compliant at a time when funds were scarce.

"With the anticipated completion of the Hiltonia Road Station, the North Jenkins portion of the five-year Rural Fire Defense Master Plan will be complete. The emphasis will then turn toward strengthening the fabric of the department by advanced training and ISO Insurance Classification reductions," said board president Mike Lane.

"With the delivery of three new fire engines this summer to Millen, Jenkins County and South Jenkins Volunteer Fire Department, fire protection in our county will make a quantum leap in dependability and efficiency," advises Chief Dwayne Herrington. "These grants have been a lifesaver. From protective clothing, to fire trucks, to emergency power for the 911 Dispatch Center, these funds have steadily improved fire protection in Jenkins County."