Rock Island, IL, Engine Provides Unique Extrication Opportunity

    June 10, 2025
    This time it didn't matter that Rock Island's E-32 had a cracked frame and a laundry list of issues.
    Despite her failing condition, Rock Island Engine 32 had one last, very important mission -- provide firefighters with a unique training opportunity. 
     
    The cracked frame and laundry list of issues that caused failed inspections didn't matter.
     
    After she was flipped, firefighters practiced extrication skills they'd need to rescue someone trapped in a wrecked fire truck. 
     
    Rock Island firefighters paid tribute on its Facebook page: "It was quite a sight and yet very sad at the same time, because of the love and care that we give to our apparatus during their service."
     
    They went on to remember her nearly 20 years of service.
     
    "She made the ultimate sacrifice to help us learn, just one more time, before she went to her final resting place."
     
    About the Author

    Susan Nicol | News Editor

    Susan Nicol is the news editor for Firehouse.com. She is a life member and active with the Brunswick Volunteer Ambulance & Rescue Company, Oxford Fire Company and Brunswick Vol. Fire Co. Susie has been an EMT in Maryland since 1976. Susie is vice-president of the Frederick County Fire/Rescue Museum. She is on the executive committee of Frederick County Volunteer Fire and Rescue Association. She also is part of the Maryland Institute for Emergency Medical Services Systems (MIEMSS) Region II EMS Council. Susie is a board member of the American Trauma Society, Maryland Division. Prior to joining the Firehouse team, she was a staff writer for The Frederick News-Post, covering fire, law enforcement, court and legislative issues. 

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