Franklin Co. fire engine was at Ground Zero on 9/11

Has been in service in Metamora and Laurel

(LAUREL, Ind.) – A fire engine that responds to calls in Franklin County was at Ground Zero on September 11, 2001. 

The East Northport Fire Department is located on Long Island, New York which is about an hour away from the World Trade Center.

On September 11, firefighters responded to a staging area and were bused into ground zero to assist with rescue and recovery operations. 

One of the fire engines that responded on that fateful day was eventually sold to the Metamora Volunteer Fire Department in 2010. 

Metamora Fire Lieutenant Elijah Bryant says it was the pride-and-joy of the department and served as their first engine out of the station for several years. 

“It always felt extra special and gave us the extra drive to keep things in tip top shape while always having the truck shining because it is a small part of such a big moment in American history,” Bryant said.

In 2022, the engine was replaced and Metamora sold it to the Laurel Volunteer Fire Department where it remains today. 

Here are photos of when the truck was in service with Metamora which are submitted by Elijah Bryant: