Washington, Jan 30, 2006 -

WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Representative John Carter (TX-31) today announced that the Arnett Auxiliary Engine Company (AAEC) in Gatesville has been awarded an $86,100 grant as part of the Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) Program. The AAEC is a volunteer unit that has been vital to enhancing the training of volunteer departments throughout Coryell County. This Fire Prevention and Safety Program grant will allow AAEC to enhance the safety of the citizens and firefighters in Coryell County regarding fire and fire-related hazards, in order to mitigate incidences of death and injuries.

“The Arnett Auxiliary Engine Company is a unique group of everyday citizens whose dedication and support is critical to enhancing the resources available to the Coryell County volunteer departments,” Congressman Carter said. “I commend them for going above and beyond the call of duty to protect communities in the 31^st District.”

Philip Yarbrough, Coordinator and board member of the Coryell County Citizen Corps Council commented, “We are very proud to be one of the few Citizen Corp Units to receive such a sizable fire grant. The work of AAEC is essential to decreasing the workload on our local fire departments while increasing fire support services to our communities. We thank Congressman Carter for his support in helping us receive this grant.”

The AFG Program is administered by the Department of Homeland Security’s Office of Grants and Training in cooperation with the U.S. Fire Administration. The grant to the Arnett Auxiliary Engine Company was included in the first round of Fire Prevention and Safety Program announcements.