The Independence Fire & EMS Department officially welcomes its newest addition.

On Saturday evening, Independence Fire held a Push-In Ceremony for its new Engine 3. During the ceremony, firefighter manually pushed the new truck into the Independence Fire Station. The tradition dates back to the 1800s, before motorized fire engines, when fire crews relied on horse-drawn steam pumpers and equipment carts. Because horses cannot easily back up a heavy wagon, firefighters would detach the horses upon returning from a call and manually push the equipment back into the station. The ceremony is also symbolic of departmental unity, because pushing the large truck as a team represents the cooperation and unity that is required in fire service.

Attendees were able to enjoy refreshments and take tours of the Fire & EMS facility.