Photos

David H. Lucas II, left, president of WEPCO Federal Credit Union, stands with Chief Chris Biggs of the New Creek (W.Va.) Volunteer Fire Department in front of the company’s new multi-use truck. In May, WEPCO provided financing for the purchase of the vehicle, manufactured by Sutphen Corp. in Amlin, Ohio. The apparatus, with seating for six, will function as an engine and ladder and also carry multiple state-of-the-art tools for fire and rescue operations. Having this apparatus will enhance safety for the firefighters by working on roofs from a stable platform. The New Creek Volunteer Fire Department was formed Aug. 17, 1961, with the original station in a “chicken coop” down the road from where the existing station stands today. The squad’s 51 active members range from firefighters to emergency medical technicians and paramedics. Since the arrival of its ambulances, New Creek’s call volume has doubled. In 2008, the department responded to 762 calls. From January through April 2009, it has answered 355 calls. / (Click for larger image)