OES, Arcadia Fire Department to Host "OES Fire Engine #343" Transfer

Today, officials from the Governor's Office of Emergency Services (OES), Arcadia Fire Department and other local agencies held a special engine dedication ceremony in Arcadia. This event memorialized OES Engine #343 in honor on remembrance of the 343 firefighters killed in the line of duty during the tragic events of September 11, 2001. This special event also highlighted the benefits of the Office of Emergency Services' Engine Program and statewide mutual aid system as highlighted in the Governor's Blue Ribbon Fire Commission Action Plan.

"It is critical that we give our firefighters the equipment they need to protect our communities from fires," said Governor Schwarzenegger. "We have the best trained, toughest and most experienced firefighters in the world. Today we honor them for their courage and commitment, and we also pay tribute to the 343 firefighters who made the ultimate sacrifice responding to the tragic events in New York City on September 11, 2001."

Engine #343 is a Type 1 Light Urban Search and Rescue (US&R) engine - a model typically utilized in response to structure and wildland fires. However, this engine also stands at the ready to respond to any natural or manmade disaster that could happen in California. It's part of California's robust mutual aid system allowing for disaster response resources to be strategically positioned throughout the state.

The event was held the Arcadia Fire Department's Station 105, located at 710 S. Santa Anita Avenue in Arcadia CA. The ceremony began at 10:00 a.m. and concluded with a tour of the new engine and fire department.