State Representative John Tidwell, Don Nerren, and Bob Keast stand alongside the sign to the entrance of the Tennessee Fire Service Codes Enforcement Academy.
Governor Don Sundquist couldn't of been happier as he smiled from the Podium during his speech.
Hundreds of volunteer and career firefighters and officers signed this special memento of the occasion. Shown here is Governor Don Sundquist as he penned his signature to the list.
One of the many courses offered at this facility includes repelling.
Members of the Murfreesboro Fire Department suit up to demonstrate fire suppression. These are some of the first graduates of the Academy.
A Blackhawk helicopter flew over the Academy grounds, filled up a bucket, and then sprayed the area as they would in an actual wildfire operation. Notice the water spray below the Blackhawk.
Benton County Emergency Managment Director, Bob Keast; Governor Don Sundquist and Brigadier General Wendell Gilbert at the dedication of the new fire academy in Bellbuckle, TN on October 22, 2002.
Brigadier General Wendell Gilbert, Anne Pope, Commissioner and State Fire Marshall helped dedicate this premier educational facility.
The ignition and suppression of the first training fire.
The four-hour dedication ceremony included a moment of silence for those who lost their lives September 11, 2001, and in fact, all firefighters who have lost their lives in the line of duty. The playing of "Amazing Grace" on the bagpipes was performed by John V. Rose, who is originally from Benton, TN.
