1912 American LaFrance Fire Engine Type 10
 

Driver:        George Kelchner, Winona Lake, IN Alt. Driver:  Eugene McGuire, Warsaw, IN Ent. Nav:    Dr. Robert Fuson, Warsaw, IN Alt. Nav.:    Lester Dean Jr., Kansas City, MO                  Dave Vanell, Redondo Beach, CA Crew:         Rob Fuson, Warsaw, IN

Thanks to the generous donation by Dr. Robert Fuson, the Warsaw Fire Department is honored and privileged to own a 1912 American LaFrance Fire Truck.  The truck is equipped with a 4-cylinder, 75 HP engine and carrying 1,200 feet of hose, with extensive 24-karat Gold Leaf detail and a black leather interior.  This truck was originally placed into service in Springfield, Missouri, and is the earliest internal combustion fire truck still operational in the United States.  In addition, it is the most famous antique fire truck in the world by virtue of its participation in The Great American Race, including nine annual races across the United States encompassing 56,000 miles.

1990 - Doc Fuson (shown riding at the back) rekindles America's admiration for his 1912 American LaFrance Fire Engine, sponsored by Interstate Battery System of America, Inc.  Fuson, now retired and living in Warsaw, is a highly acclaimed Indiana heart surgeon.  He won the first "Spirit of the Event" award, and his is the only vehicle to race in every Interstate Batteries Great American Race held to date.