SEAN BOSTON
Hutch Post
HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A fire engine that once helped protect Hutchinson is being preserved as a symbol of service and sacrifice, but now it needs a little help from the community it once served.
International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) Local 179, the union representing Hutchinson firefighters, is raising funds to restore a 1969 American LaFrance fire truck that spent nearly three decades in active service before becoming a ceremonial vehicle used for parades, weddings and firefighter funerals.
The engine was retired by the city in 1996. One firefighter purchased it shortly after, maintaining it for several years before the union bought it in the early 2000s for about $8,000. Since then, it has become a fixture at department events and memorials, a rolling tribute to the profession’s past.
“It’s one of those cool old relics from back in the day,” said Patrick Weathers, a captain with the department and the GoFundMe organizer. “It’s almost 60 years old now. I don't think it pumps anymore, but it’s been a part of so many of our events, parades, weddings, funerals, it really means something to a lot of people.”
Earlier this year, the union had to replace the tires and perform an alignment. Then the transmission gave out, prompting an emergency tow to another station where a mechanic, could get under the hood. The transmission hadn’t been serviced in more than 40 years. An outdated filter from a long-defunct parts store was still in place.
“We’re just cobbling together money where we can,” Weathers said. “We’ve always had little issues with the battery system and starting it up, but the transmission failure kind of forced our hand. We couldn’t let it sit any longer.”
The ceremonial truck is maintained by the union’s honor guard and funded largely through member dues, memorial donations, and small contributions from events. But with aging components piling up, the union launched a GoFundMe campaign in July, hoping to raise $4,000 for front-end work, air system repairs, and electrical upgrades.
“There are a lot of guys who fought fires on that truck,” Weathers said. “When they see it pop up on Facebook, it brings back memories. That’s what makes it worth preserving.”
The engine still sports its original paint and is stored indoors at Reno County Fire District #3 station. It’s started every Saturday and brought out about a dozen times a year, including appearances at MDA Fill the Boot, school tours and special occasions. But it’s perhaps most revered for its role in honoring fallen firefighters.
“It’s powerful when you see someone being carried to their final resting place on the back of that truck,” Weathers said. “It’s our way of showing respect.”
Those wishing to contribute can donate online through the GoFundMe page or drop off checks at any Hutchinson fire station, marked for the IAFF union truck. All donations go directly to the union and its honor guard fund for maintenance and repairs.