• Canaveral Port Authority donated a 2012 Pierce Velocity ladder truck known as Truck 52 to Eastern Florida State College.
• The vehicle previously responded to nearly 7,000 emergency calls across Brevard County during its active service.
• The truck features a 75-foot aerial ladder and robust pumping capabilities ideal for student training evolutions.
• The donation supports the college’s Fire Training Center in preparing the next generation of Florida firefighters

The Canaveral Port Authority continues its proud tradition of community support by formally donating a retired aerial fire apparatus to Eastern Florida State College. During a special ceremony at the port, leadership handed over the keys to Truck 52, a reliable 2012 model year 75-foot Pierce Velocity ladder truck previously operated by Canaveral Fire Rescue. This generous contribution ensures that the specialized vehicle will embark on a new chapter of public service, transitioning from active emergency responses to shaping the future of regional safety education.

Throughout its distinguished career safeguarding the port and surrounding Brevard County communities, the apparatus responded to nearly 7,000 emergency calls under mutual aid agreements with federal installations and neighboring municipalities. Now, the heavy-duty vehicle will find a permanent home at the college’s advanced fire training center, where aspiring first responders will utilize its impressive capabilities for practical learning. Equipped with a robust pumping capacity and an extensive aerial ladder, the truck provides students with authentic, hands-on experience essential for earning state certification in Florida.

College administrators expressed deep gratitude for the partnership, noting that high-caliber equipment donations are vital for preparing well-qualified professionals who will protect the community for years to come. This meaningful handover highlights the enduring dedication of port officials to regional education, emergency preparedness, and the continuous advancement of local safety initiatives. By empowering the next generation of firefighters, Port Canaveral guarantees that the legacy of Truck 52 and its dedicated crew will live on through the capable hands of future hometown heroes.