(Washington, D.C.): – Congressman Michael R. McNulty (D-Green Island) announced today that East Greenbush Fire District #3 will receive $173,169 in federal funds from the 2005 Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) program administered by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.

McNulty noted that the fire district would use the funds for the purchase of forty-one new self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) units, as well as appropriate firefighter training for safe usage of the units.

“This grant will allow the Fire District to provide vital state of the art equipment,” said past East Greenbush Fire Chief George Forgea.

“The new SCBA units will enhance firefighter safety,” said Fire Chief William Mason, Jr.

Congressman McNulty said, "The training and equipment provided to our first responders through the Fire Grant program are critical in securing the safety of our communities. I'm pleased that the Department of Homeland Security has recognized the commitment of our local fire services by providing the funding necessary to upgrade existing equipment, improve firefighting operations, and ensure the safety and well-being of our firefighters.”

“First responders put their lives on the line -- day in and day out -- to ensure the safety and well-being of citizens in our communities. We should all take a moment to thank our firefighters and other first responders, and their families, for their sacrifice and service," McNulty added.

In fiscal year 2005, the Assistance to Firefighters Grant program will award $650 million to approximately 5,500 fire departments throughout the country. The AFG program assists local fire departments to purchase firefighting equipment, fund firefighter health and safety programs, enhance emergency medical services programs, and conduct fire education and prevention programs throughout the United States.

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