MARYVILLE, IL — A new ambulance is now serving the residents of Maryville thanks to a $330,000 state investment secured through the advocacy of State Senator Erica Harriss. Senator Harriss joined local officials, first responders, and community members Wednesday for the Maryville Village Fire Department’s Ambulance Commissioning and Push-In Ceremony, celebrating the department’s newest addition to its emergency response fleet.
“Our first responders answer the call every day without hesitation, and they deserve the equipment they need to do their jobs safely and effectively,” said Senator Harriss. “When Chief Dankenbring shared the department’s need for a new ambulance, I knew it was an investment that could help save lives. I’m proud to help deliver the resources our first responders need to continue serving the people of Maryville.”
The ceremony included the remarks from local leaders and the formal presentation of the ambulance by Senator Harriss to Chief Doug Dankenbring on behalf of the Maryville Village Fire Department.
“This new ambulance is a tremendous investment in our department and in the people we serve,” said Chief Dankenbring. “Reliable equipment is essential to providing quality emergency care, and this ambulance will help us continue responding quickly and safely when our community needs us. We appreciate Senator Harriss’ advocacy and the support from the State of Illinois that helped make this possible.”
Following a blessing by Pastor Jeff Chamberlain and Chaplain Bill Dempsey, the ambulance was officially commissioned and placed into service. Senator Harriss, Mayor Wayne White, firefighters, EMS personnel, and special guests then participated in the department’s traditional Push-In Ceremony, symbolizing the ambulance’s readiness to serve the Maryville community.
“This new ambulance is an investment in the safety and well-being of our residents,” said Mayor White. “We are grateful for Senator Harriss’ partnership and advocacy in securing this funding. This investment strengthens our emergency response capabilities and ensures our firefighters, paramedics, and EMTs have the equipment they need to continue providing exceptional service to our community.”
Ambulance 2241 will provide the Maryville Village Fire Department with reliable, modern equipment to respond to medical emergencies and continue delivering high-quality care to residents for years to come.
