
Members of Watertown Fire Rescue push new Engine 1 into the station. Photo by Brandon Heim, Watertown Current.
After nearly two years of planning, Watertown Fire Rescue marked a milestone on the morning of Tuesday, Jan 14, as it hosted a traditional Push-In Ceremony for its newest firetruck, Engine 1. The event was held at the department’s main location downtown.

Watertown’s newest fire truck is Engine 1. (Photo by Brandon Heim, Watertown Current)
Firefighter Tanner Sittig began the event with the history of the Push-In. The ceremony has its origins with the first fire stations in the United States when horse-drawn fire carriages would literally have to be pushed back into the fire station by firefighters. The tradition has been retained by modern fire stations when a new engine is put into service.
Shortly after, the assembled members of the WFR gathered outside of the garage and together pushed Engine 1 into its new home.
Battalion Chief Craig Kruse then spoke on the some of the features on the new piece of equipment. Engine 1 is smaller and narrower than a standard model, which allows for ease of navigation. It also features a unique spray foam fire retardant made from soy beans.
Watertown Fire Chief Donald Roland then thanked both current and past city administration for their efforts in securing funding for the new truck, which was first proposed in April 2023. He also thanked staff members at Watertown Fire Rescue for their work in designing it.
“It’s a dauting adventure to get to the finish line” he said.
After a benediction, Chaplain Hank Roso dedicated Engine 1 and its crews “to the Glory of God”.

WFD Chaplain Hank Roso blesses Engine 1 (photo by Brandon Heim, Watertown Current)