The Monmouth Fire Department received a significant contribution Wednesday, March 16, from Country Financial representatives Tiffany Cole, Ben Olson and Rachael Gipe in advance of next week’s recognition of National Agriculture Day on March 23.
The “Operation Helping Heroes” donation — in the amount of $3,750 — will help establish a Grain Bin Safety Unit within the fire department, and also help offset the purchase of equipment and future training for rescue operations.
Fire Chief Casey Rexroat explains why the equipment and training will ultimately benefit Monmouth area farmers, and the neighboring communities as well.
“The donation will help build up our inventory of equipment and increase our training opportunities,” Chief Rexroat said, before the check presentation. Ultimately, Rexroat explained, the fire department “will increase its effectiveness,” especially in the area of farm safety.
Olson echoed the fire chief’s thoughts.
The addition of a Grain Bin Safety Unit “will help provide a blanket of safety for our farming community,” Olson said, “and that’s one of the key reasons for our support” of Operation Helping Heroes.
Chief Rexroat commended Firefighter Tyler Osborn for his initiative in helping to elevate this program at the firehouse, and the role it will play in raising safety awareness — especially in the farming community.
