NORWAY — The Fire Department’s Engine 3 will be loaned to the fire science classes at Region 9 School of Applied Technology in Mexico, Chief Dennis Yates announced recently.

Yates told selectmen recently that the 500-gallon Maxim tanker has been stripped of tools, hoses, ladders and air packs.

At best, the truck would have garnered about $2,500 at bid, and other local departments were asked first if they needed the truck, Yates said.

“I’m going to miss it,” said Engine 4 Capt. Chris Yates who first rode on Engine 3 when she joined the department in 2001. Her father, Capt. David Tilley, was the first captain on the truck when it arrived new in 1967.

“It’s a great opportunity,” Selectman Irene Millett said of the loan.

“Encouraging more people to get into the fire service is important,” Board of Selectmen Chairman Russ Newcomb said.

The fire science classes are being taught by Jonathan Longley, a deputy chief with the Paris Fire Department.

ldixon@sunjournal.com