Bradley County Mayor Gary Davis was taken by surprise Friday morning. Fire and Rescue Chief Dewey Woody and firefighters at the new Tasso Lane Fire Hall honored the county mayor by naming the new fire truck the “Mayor D. Gary Davis.”

Before the unveiling of the truck’s name, Chief Woody gave County Mayor Davis, his family and commissioners a tour of the state of the art fire engine. The 1,000 gallon pumper has several features including digital cameras on the passenger side and rear which feed a TV monitor on the gauge panel. This safety feature enables the operator to see what is happening around the truck during an emergency. Two telescoping halogen lights flood the scene at night and a motorized ladder rack lowers the ladders to chest height for easy access.

Chief Woody then explained that it is common for fire departments to name their engines after people who are important to the department, such as former chiefs or other dignitaries. Chief Woody said that when it became clear last December that the BCFR would need a new engine at the Tasso Lane Fire Hall, he and the firefighters decided to honor County Mayor Davis. Chief Woody said this is in recognition of his unwavering support and important contribution to the department’s success.

Chief Woody then asked County Mayor Davis to pull the cord to uncover the truck’s name. The crowd of firefighters broke into laughter and applause when they heard the county mayor’s reaction. “Oh my… I don’t know what to say. I hope this doesn’t mean I’m gonna die or leave” the county mayor said. He then thanked the firefighters for the honor and for their service to the citizens of Bradley County.

Also on hand were 2nd District Commissioners Connie Wilson and Louie Alford, District 4 Commissioners Jim Smith and Howard Thompson and District 1 Commissioner Ed Elkins.

The new fire truck is scheduled to have radios installed in the next few days and possibly be in service by the first of December.