A luncheon event took place on Friday at the Ron Ramsey Regional Agriculture Center to honor fire departments and rescue squads from six counties in Northeast Tennessee.

Representatives from Sullivan, Johnson, Hawkins, Carter, Washington, and Unicoi counties were recognized by local legislators and awarded grant checks for each department.

Kevin Walters, a spokesperson for the Tennessee Department of Commerce and Insurance and the state Fire Marshals’ office, mentioned that the funds are intended to support volunteer fire departments in purchasing equipment.

“We aim to ensure the safety of those members as they serve their communities because they are the first responders in cases of fire or emergencies,” Walters stated. “They move towards danger, and it’s imperative they have the necessary equipment to protect themselves.”

Kenneth McQueen, Chief of the Shady Valley Volunteer Fire Department, expressed that the grant has significantly benefited his department, and his team is appreciative of the senators’ efforts to secure the funding.

McQueen’s department received $18,000 through the grants and was able to buy a new thermal imaging camera.

“This is crucial for us, and we’re optimistic about the future as our next acquisition will be the necessary packs that we need to update and purchase,” he said.

McQueen said the generosity uplifted his team, and being able to purchase new equipment has brought a sense of accomplishment to the volunteer firefighters.