U.S. Rep. Jim McGovern, U.S. Sen. Edward M. Kennedy and U.S. Sen. John Kerry today announced that the Marlborough Fire Department has been awarded $118,537 in Operations and Safety funding under the 2008 Assistance to Firefighter Grant program.

“I’m very pleased that Marlborough will be receiving this funding,” Rep. McGovern said. “I believe that homeland security starts with hometown security. Chief Adams and his team are being properly recognized for their outstanding work. It’s critical that we provide local first responders with the resources they need to protect our communities. The federal government must be a partner in that effort. I will continue to be a strong supporter of this Assistance to Firefighter Grant program, and I’ll work to maintain its funding in Congress.”

“Marlborough’s firefighters put their lives on the line everyday and it’s critical they have the resources they need to do their jobs safely and effectively,” Sen. Kerry said. “This funding will allow Chief Adams to upgrade the Marlborough Fire Department’s equipment, enhancing the department’s ability to respond to emergency situations in the community and improving the safety of both residents and firefighters.”

Melissa Wagoner, spokeswoman for Senator Edward M. Kennedy said, “The heroic firefighters of the Marlborough Fire Department have shown great skill and dedication in responding to emergencies and protecting the community, and this award is eminently well deserved.”

Under the Operations and Safety Program, eligible activities for fire departments include training, equipment, personal protective equipment, wellness and fitness, and health and safety modifications to stations and facilities.

The Assistance for Firefighters Grant Program is administered by the U.S. Fire Administration, part of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), and assists rural, urban and suburban fire departments throughout the United States. On March 1, 2003, FEMA became part of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. FEMA's continuing mission within the new department is to lead the effort to prepare the nation for all hazards and effectively manage federal response and recovery efforts following any national incident. More information can be found at www.firegrantsupport.com

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