Ferndale/Troy: Fire Truck Pull Raises Money for Special Olympics
(C. Proxmire, July 28, 2015)
Members of the Troy Fire Department team proved to be the toughest on Saturday as they were able to pull a firetruck faster than any other group at the Ferndale Fire Truck Pull for Special Olympics.
The event was hosted by Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 130 in Ferndale.  Troy Fire Department, FOP Auxiliary and the Blue Knights all pulled, then a team of kids was given the chance.  Troy made it across the line in 7.75 seconds, followed by the Blue Knights at 8.7, FOP Auxiliary at 10.4, and the youngsters at about 12.
Ferndale Fire Chief Kevin Sullivan said that never in 30 years has Ferndale has a Fire Truck Pull.  “We have pulled it before,” he said.  “Out of the mud, off to the side of the road when it’s broke down, but not ever by people and a rope.”
Lorenzo Veal Cuda of the Blue Knights came from Ann Arbor to help his team pull the fire truck.  Blue Knights is a motorcycle club for active or retired police officers.  Officers who love to ride come together from all over for social rides, bike shows, and charity events.  “We’re very family orientated.  We don’t go anywhere you can’t take children,” he said.  “Charity is a big part of what we do.  We’re proud to help when we can. And we need to engage with the public.  There’s a perception of police officers, especially now, that conflicts with the public, but we are here to help.”
Special Olympics often works with law enforcement on fundraisers and to recruit volunteers.  Heather Fox, Development Manager with Special Olympics, helps when groups want to host events like the Ferndale Fire Truck Pull.  “Special Olympics gives so many athletes a chance to experience something great,” Fox said. “We’re grateful that law enforcement agencies have been so supportive of this.  The money helps athletes go to state and regional competitions.”
Joe Morin of FOP 130 and Blue Knights grinned heartily as he eyed the big red fire truck with the rope long enough for ten people attached to the front.  He joked with other riders and laughed when the cheerleaders for the group brought out a toy truck to be pulled around for warm ups.  He’s been doing volunteer work for Special Olympics for eight years.
“You should see the looks on their faces,” he said of the athletes at Special Olympics competitions.  “They’re so happy to be there.”
On Saturday, it seemed, Morin and the other firetruck pullers could relate.
Note: This article has been updated to include the FOP Auxiliary.
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