JVFD awarded grant

The Jasper Volunteer Fire Department will receive a grant of $53,797 to upgrade firefighters breathing apparatus, according to JVFD volunteer Bob Gary.

"This funding will help make sure first responders at the Jasper Fire Department have the resources necessary to keep the surrounding community safe," said U.S. Senator John Cornyn, when announcing the grant Feb. 13. "We have a responsibility to support those working on the front lines every day to protect families, home and property," Cornyn said.

Gary began the grant process when he was deputy chief in charge of training for JVFD. He has since stepped down as an officer for JVFD to serve as fire chief of the East End Volunteer Fire Department. He is still involved as a volunteer for JVFD and will be involved in the purchase of the upgraded air packs.

"The new units will have a wireless head-ups display in the facemask that will tell our firefighters how full their bottle is," Gary said. "It's a much better piece of equipment for the job."