WASHINGTON, D.C.  -  Congressman Mike Rogers congratulated the men and women of the Mt. Weisner Volunteer Fire Department today for receiving an $182,875 grant from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, money Rogers said would help the Cherokee County fire department help purchase a new fire truck.

“Cherokee County’s first responders are our first line of defense,” Rogers said. “I congratulate the men and women of the Mt. Weisner Volunteer Fire Department for receiving this grant, and hope it will ultimately help increase the safety for all local citizens.”

Rogers said the grant should be awarded under the 2006 Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program, an essential Federal program which supports first responders across Alabama and the nation. Included under the Assistance to Firefighters Grants initiative is funding for equipment, health and safety programs, emergency medical services programs, and fire education and prevention programs. The grant is administered by the Homeland Security Department and will provide the fire department with a new vehicle.

Rogers is Chairman of the Subcommittee on Management, Integration and Oversight on the Committee on Homeland Security in Congress. “I am pleased to see the Federal government is continuing to make these types of investments in the Third District,” he added.

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