Next was Belle Valley, where I had hoped to get a shot of their new Sutphen tower, but it was heavily damaged at a recent fire. The 1949/1980/1989 ALF was sitting in the station. I did reshoot this one, now featuring an enclosed cab.
My last shot for the day was at the FD I started with back in February, 1982. That summer, we purchased a used 4000 gallon stainless milk tanker, mounted on a 1971 International chassis. First, the rear axle had to be replaced. The tank was removed and taken to a local welding shop where fill and dump valves and baffles were added. Due to a clearance issue with the bay doors, the original dome was replaced by a flat cover with a 3" hole. During that time, the axle was replaced, the cab and frame painted, and lights and siren installed. The rig was reassembled and placed in service in late August, 1982 at a total cost of under $16,000.
By the late 1990's, the original chassis was wearing out. It was replaced by a 1992 Ford LTL-9000 and continued to serve for many more years. In 2010, the Ford was getting long in the tooth, so it was replaced by this used Peterbilt.
Awesome stuff! Glad to see you were able to get into Bland, I couldn't find anyone to only time I was up that way.
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I saw a Deputy pull up to the courthouse and asked him for help in locating someone. He sent me to the dispatch office. The dispatcher called someone and three guys showed up about ten minutes later.
My thanks also for posting Bland, VA. A handful of years ago I was able to photograph their Oshkosh during the late afternoon. I had stopped for gas and thought I would check out the FD. What a surprise this one was, and took some time finding a driver. Because it was late in the day, I did not have a chance to get any decent shots of Engine 21 and 22.
I think I know who you are speaking of regarding Bluefield, VA. I have been in that area only a couple of times, and each time a real challenge with apparatus photos.
My thanks also for posting Bland, VA. A handful of years ago I was able to photograph their Oshkosh during the late afternoon. I had stopped for gas and thought I would check out the FD. What a surprise this one was, and took some time finding a driver. Because it was late in the day, I did not have a chance to get any decent shots of Engine 21 and 22.
I think I know who you are speaking of regarding Bluefield, VA. I have been in that area only a couple of times, and each time a real challenge with apparatus photos.
Mike Sanders
Winchester, VA
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You are welcome, Mike. It was your photo that let me know that monster was at Bland. On my next trip home, I will be better prepared for the guy at Bluefield, unless he's the Chief!
Sunday (the 18th) was a short day as I had family obligations for the afternoon. I did manage to get out in the morning and shoot some of the newer additions to some of the departments in Chautauqua County.