Today, Congressman Henry Cuellar celebrated the arrival of a new federally funded fire engine for the Cibolo Volunteer Fire Department. Funds for the purchase of this new fire truck were secured in August of 2005 under the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program (AFG). The Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program is a program of the Preparedness Directorate's Office of Grants and Training in DHS, grants are awarded to fire departments to enhance their ability to protect the public and fire service personnel from fire and related hazards.

“As Chairman of the Homeland Security Subcommittee on Emergency Communications, Preparedness & Response, I’m delighted to the see real and tangible results of federal first responder funding,” said Congressman Cuellar. “Grant programs like this are crucial in ensuring that our nation’s first responders are properly equipped and trained. As subcommittee chair I will continue fighting to ensure that programs like this one are properly fund and accessible.”

The new tanker/pumper truck has a 1500 gallon water capacity and is also equipped to dispense foam for extinguishing petroleum fueled fires. In addition to its fire fighting capabilities it is also equipped with advanced life support and emergency extraction and rescue equipment. 

Congressman Henry Cuellar is a member of the House Homeland Security, Small Business, and Agriculture Committees in the 110th Congress; accessibility to constituents, education, health care, economic development, and national security are his priorities. Congressman Cuellar is also a Majority Senior Whip.