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Country Club Hills has recently joined the roster of MABAS Division 24 departments listed online. This department operates two fire stations equipped with a combined fleet of three ambulances, four engines, and one tower ladder. One of their engines, Engine 1140, stands out as a 1980 American LaFrance Century model, a 75-foot Water Chief Quint boasting a 1,500-gallon-per-minute (GPM) pump and a 300-gallon water tank. Although originally lettered as Truck 1140, its aerial device is currently out of service, so it functions as an engine instead. Interestingly, Country Club Hills is home to the sole HME/Ahrens-Fox/RK Aerials tower ladder in Illinois.
This particular engine gained attention when it was showcased at a recent fire incident, which you can view here, complete with images captured by Karl Klotz. Additionally, Station 2, located at 4520 W. 175th Street, serves as the department's headquarters, as documented by Jack Connors. The station features an impressive Spartan Crimson engine, a testament to the department’s commitment to modern firefighting equipment.
Further highlighting their unique fleet, Country Club Hills also maintains a remarkable HME Ahrens-Fox RK tower ladder, an iconic piece of fire apparatus. The department’s Engine 1145, another standout, is a testament to their dedication to preserving historical firefighting technology. Meanwhile, their Engine 1140, the American LaFrance Century Water Chief Quint, exemplifies the classic design of American LaFrance's 'Chief' series. Each rear-mounted aerial in this series was categorized under specific names such as the Ladder Chief, Ladder Chief Quint, Water Chief, Water Chief Quint, and Aero Chief. The Aero Chief, in particular, was characterized by its two-piece articulating boom with a platform at the end, reminiscent of the Snorkel.
American LaFrance's Water Chief models were distinct from their Ladder Chief counterparts, as the former came equipped with a pre-piped waterway, whereas the latter was a straight ladder. Both types could be integrated into quint units, combining pump and water capabilities. These 'Chief' series aerials remain rare sights today, with only a few still in active service.
In addition to their operational vehicles, Country Club Hills has a rich history tied to these classic models. Their efforts in maintaining both functional and historic equipment underscore their role as stewards of firefighting heritage in the region. The department’s commitment to balancing tradition with modernity ensures they remain well-equipped to handle contemporary emergencies while honoring their past achievements.