Southeastern Louisiana University

Hammond fire truck displays Southeastern spirit

Contact: Tonya Lowentritt

2/11/09

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     The truck's design was made possible through the generosity of Ferrara Fire Apparatus, Inc., which agreed to using the specialized green and gold paint, Lion logo and designs at a significantly discounted rate.

     “I’m a firm believer in giving back to the community, and Southeastern does so much for the community, too,” said Chris Ferrera, father of two Southeastern students and CEO of Ferrara Fire Apparatus, a company considered an innovator in the fire and emergency vehicle industry. “This is an excellent way for Ferrara and the university to partner together.”

     Assistant Fire Chief Richard “Stormy” Lee first presented the idea of a Southeastern fire truck last year. With the approval of Mayor Mayson Foster, the Hammond Fire Department and Interim President John Crain, it was just a matter of finding the funds for the project. The Southeastern Development Foundation, Alumni Association and honor society Gamma Beta Phi all stepped up to the plate.

     “People stop me all the time and tell me how excited they are to spot the Southeastern fire truck around town,” Crain said. “It’s great to have such an impressive green and gold presence on the streets of Hammond keeping people safe.”

     The truck is housed at the Hammond Fire Department’s University Fire Station at the corner of University Avenue and North Oak Street.