WEST POINT – The Department of the Army has conceded and agreed to fund the West Point Fire Department to the tune of $1.8 million for equipment to cover shortfalls.
Two weeks ago, Senate Majority Leader Charles Schumer was at West Point to turn up the heat on the Army brass in Washington, DC to secure a commitment for the funding that is actually 150 percent of the fire department’s original request.
“West Point firefighters rush to danger every day to keep over 6,500 military families, service members protecting our nation, and our Hudson Valley communities safe,” Schumer said on Wednesday. “That’s why when I found out that these firefighters only got five percent of what West Point asked for last year to replace failing equipment, I said enough is enough and immediately sounded the alarm, promising to use all of my power to get them the help they needed and deserved.”
Congressman Pat Ryan (D, NY-18), a West Point graduate, said he knows “firsthand the heroism of West Point firefighters and the tremendous service they provide to the community.” He said the West Point firefighters “put their lives on the line every day for this community, and I will always fight to make sure they get the necessary support.”
