B-CC Rescue Squad Dedicates New Squad Truck

The Saturday welcomed its newest member -- a heavy duty rescue squad truck known as "The Beast."

The "toolbox on wheels," delivered in January after more than two years of fundraising efforts, replaces one of the squad's old rescue trucks which had well exceeded its mileage after 15 years, according to longtime rescue squad administrative volunteer Devee Schoenberg.

"It's state-of-the-art equipment, so it's a phenomenal difference," Schoenberg said.

The "life-saving vehicle" will aid squad members as they respond to fires, car collisions and accidents with pinned victims, and a variety of specialized rescues, according to a squad newsletter. A "faster and more powerful" extrication system will also allow squad members to more quickly free victims trapped in wrecked cars.

The truck features a 550 horsepower engine and a 38-foot long stainless steel body and seats eight firefighters.

Squad representatives, local officials and the community dedicated the new truck at Saturday ceremony.

"Even more impressive than the truck’s technical specifications is the impact it’s going to have on our community," wrote Ned Sherburne, Bethesda-Chevy Chase Rescue Squad Chief, in the squad's spring newsletter. "Here’s the bottom line: If you’re critically hurt, our rescuers will be able to get access to you more quickly. We can start treating your injuries sooner in the field and deliver you faster to the hospital."