Big Bend National Park Donated a Wildland Firetruck to the Marathon Fire Department

MARATHON – Big Bend National Park has donated a much needed wildland fire truck to the Marathon Fire Department last week.

On Thursday, July 7, 2022, the Marathon Fire Department received a 2011 Ford F-550 from Big Bend National Park. Engine 864 is classified as a Type 6 Wildland Fire Engine and is designed and used on initial attacks on wildfires.

The Marathon Fire Department covers Marathon and the area surrounding Marathon including Big Ben National Park. “In rural West Texas, neighbors help each other. We’re delighted we can assist Marathon and Brewster County this way.” National Park Superintendent Bob Krumenaker said.

D.W. Ivans, Fire Management Officer for Big Bend National Park said, “We’re pleased Big Bend can donate Engine 864 to the Marathon Fire Department. We rely heavily on Marathon’s fire department to provide initial attack on wildfires to supplement the park’s small full-time fire staff.”

Marathon Fire Chief Brad Wilson accepted the keys to Engine 864 saying, “We are grateful for this donation, as this engine will go a long way in our efforts to protect our community. Thank you, Big Bend National Park!”