In 2021, led by the efforts of DVFA Member Dave Casey, a current Fire Science Educator and retired Fire Chief who served with multiple departments during his career, the Association set its sights on replacing our 1995 Chevy Support unit, which previously served as a Rescue vehicle for the Orange City Fire Department.
From ambulance to support unit
Chief Casey worked with his friends at Clay County Fire Rescue to obtain one of their recently decommissioned ambulances. Clay County generously agreed to donate the vehicle to the Association, and it was added to the City of DeBary Fire fleet.
We worked with DeBary Paint and Body to rehabilitate the vehicle, including removal of old lettering, and an exterior repaint and finish. DeBary Paint and Body generously donated a large portion of their labor costs for this project.
Next, the vehicle went to Image Works in Orange City, who did all of the customized lettering and striping for us.
The “NEW” Support 33 went in service in early 2022, after its debut in the 2021 DeBary Christmas Parade.
Timeline of the project
- 2021
A plan to replace the 1995 unit
Led by member Dave Casey, the Association looks for a dependable replacement for its aging Chevy support unit.
- 2021
Clay County donates an ambulance
Clay County Fire Rescue donates a recently decommissioned ambulance to the Association.
- 2021
Paint, body and lettering
DeBary Paint and Body refinishes the vehicle; Image Works in Orange City applies the lettering and striping.
- Dec 2021
Parade debut
Support 33 makes its first public appearance in the DeBary Christmas Parade.
- 2022
In service
Support 33 begins responding to fires and extended incidents to support firefighters and other responders.
Thank you
Our sincerest thanks go out to Clay County Fire, DeBary Paint and Body, Image Works, Mayor Karen Chasez, and The Coloni Family Foundation, who all helped make this possible.