The Greater Springfield Volunteer Fire Department, Engine Co 422B was proud to accept a Unit Citation Valor Award from the Greater Springfield Chamber of Commerce. This citation was for actions at the Poag St Alexandria fire back in February 2020.
E422B crew made the decision to cut down trees, branches, and a fence on the backside of the fire ground in order to gain access to a fire hydrant which was used to supply hose lines that aided in the saving of 14 occupied townhouses.
Once access was made, the citizens living in the 14 townhouses were able to evacuate vehicles crowding the dead-end street and allow for other fire dept resources (three ladder trucks and two more engines) to enter the backside of the fire ground where the additional crews increased the aid and successful efforts to save the 14 townhouses.
Fire access cutout allowing crews to get units and water in after removing fencing and trees
Tower 424 entering cut-out
E422 entering cut-out to lay hose
E422B after entering the cutout
E422B supplying water
T422 with saved townhouses in background
Firefighters battled with only feet on each side to save occupied townhouses (on left).
