Moran helped raise $2.9 million for the construction project and seemed to be satisfied with its fruition, according to Fire Chief C.T. Campbell.
"He helped to get the funding back in 1998, so we invited him to visit the building and get an overview of our mission," said Provost Marshal Lt. Col. Mary Beam. "He was able to see where we are at and where we are going. He talked to the fire fighters and we managed to have a very positive and successful meeting."
Many Fort Myer fire fighters, however, had concerns about the facility. They want a third engine bay, more dormitory rooms and office space added to the building.
"I liked the building, but I think more can be done for the fire fighters -- they're a little short on space and they could certainly use more dormitories," Moran said. "But, it's a vast improvement [to the old fire house]."
Moran said the fire fighters have requested funding for a Directorate of Public Safety building expansion through the Pentagon's 2005 budget. If that request falls through, Moran said he'll try to add the funding on to the budget.
The expansion project, called a "Phase II" construction, will cost approximately $1.3 million.
"There is a 'Phase II' plan to expand the facility, most notably adding an additional truck bay where the conference room exists," said Fort Myer Garrison Commander Col. Christopher Essig. "Post Sept. 11 requirements are largely a driving factor [for the expansion]. The fire department is playing an ever increasing role in force protection and have acquired more personnel and equipment since then."
"They would like to house a back-up vehicle that can't be housed there until they get a third truck bay," Moran said. "Once we get the money, I'm sure construction will start as soon as possible. It shouldn't be that complex. If we get the money in 2005, then construction should start in 2005."
Campbell said the building's expansion would relieve many of the firefighters' concerns.
"There was no displeasure or anything like that, [Moran] wanted to know how he can continue to support us and our mission," Campbell said. "The [fire fighters] had some concerns and we're going to move forward. Construction for the second phase expansion should eliminate those concerns. But, [Moran's] visit was very positive."
Moran also labeled his trip "positive." He said the briefing went more smoothly than he anticipated.
"I like Fort Myer and I like Col. Essig," Moran said. "I've had some bad experiences there in the past, but I've moved on and I've put those concerns behind me. The leadership here is very good."
Moran lunched with the fire fighters -- some firehouse chili -- and visited the USO's Call Home for the Holidays program at the community center.
"The chili was damn good and it didn't even give me gas," the representative said. "It wasn't too spicy, it was mild and chunky. I go to a lot of chili-cook-offs and they use a lot of spice to mask the things wrong with it. This chili was made of real crushed tomatoes, not tomato paste, and I didn't even need to grab the Tums."
