OWENS CROSS ROAD VFD

In 1958, Robert M. Maples along with six additional men put into action the founding of Owens Cross Roads Volunteer Fire Department. These men of vision decided this community needed fire protection. Through creative thinking and ingenuity these men acquired materials to build vital equipment for their new department. Most of the items built or fabricated were by Mr. Maples or under his supervision. Their first fire truck was an old gas tanker from Redstone Arsenal. This refurbished tanker needed a new engine. Purchasing the engine and parts with their own money, they worked long nights to turn this gas truck into a fire truck. This would be the only fire apparatus members would have for ten years. In 1968 the town of Owens Cross Roads purchased a new Chevrolet (500 gal.) front mount pumper. This apparatus, Engine 261, is affectionately known as Mr. Maples engine. With limited funding, the department members raised money by involving the community in barbeque cookouts, softball tournaments, and pancake breakfast with Mr. Maples being an intrigal part of these events.
In May (2008) Engine 261 failed to meet the NFPA-1911 standard, due to a failed pump; therefore, Engine 261 can no longer function as a front line engine. Due to our expanding community and commercial properties, a replacement engine is of the utmost importance. A new Tradition ES Commercial Pumper Unit would provide double the capacity of water (1000 gal.) by replacing engine 261 (500 gal.). This is extremely important in our rural community for those structures not having adequate fire hydrant protection. The Owens Cross Roads Volunteer Fire Department serves a rural community with a population of approximately 3600 in Madison County, Alabama. We currently have two stations and 20 active members. Our department provides structural and wildland fire suppression, rescue operations, and emergency medical services to our district and neighboring communities. In our response area of 122 square miles, we provide fire protection to a nursing home, three schools, a fireworks factory and numerous one and two story homes.
A great loss to the community occurred in September 2009, when Mr. Maples passed away having served as Assistant Chief for 51 years. Mr. Maples was the last surviving founding member of this department. We are reminded every day of the memories of Mr. Maples such as the equipment he built, this fire station, and especially Engine 261.
It is this departments commitment to provide the highest level of health and safety protection to the communities we serve. A new Tradition ES Commercial Pumper Unit would help accomplish this goal and would be dedicated to the memory and vision of Robert M. Maples, and the other six founding members. Our story, truly shows pioneers paving the way with vision, dedication, and commitment to their community.

We would like to thank E-ONE for this opportunity and allowing us to share Robert M. Maples legacy with you.