Seward Township/Burket Firefighters Mitch Good, Ryan Shomaker and Brennen Adas display the new battery operated Jaws equipment. This equipment is the newest technology and the first set in serve in North America. Photo provided by Kevin McSherry.

News Release

BURKET — The Gary Sinise Foundation helped Seward Township/Burket Fire and Rescue purchase new battery operated Jaws equipment.

Fire Chief Kevin McSherry notes this equipment has the newest technology and the first set in service in North America.

The logo for the Gary Sinise Foundation has been placed on the Seward Township/Burket Fire Department rescue truck in recognition of the foundation’s assistance in purchasing new jaws equipment for the department. Photo provided by Kevin McSherry.

The Gary Sinise Foundation serves the nation by honoring defenders, veterans, first responders, their families and those in need. The foundation has created and supported unique programs designed to entertain, educate, inspire, strengthen and build communities.

Founder Gary Sinise began devoting his time supporting the men and women who were deployed after Sept. 11, 2001. Having veterans in his own family and having been involved with supporting veterans, Sinise decided to become more active in devoting his time and resources to serving defenders however and wherever he could.

A few years after 9/11, he visited New York firehouses, befriended many firefighters and has supported FDNY through numerous efforts. His personal mission is what led to the founding of the foundation in 2011 and with the help of supporters, it continues to expand the mission in support of the nation’s defenders, veterans, first responders and their loved ones.

Programs include R.I.S.E. , relief and resiliency, community and education, first responders and last out.

To learn more about the foundation visit its website.

Shown are members of the Seward Township/Burket Fire Department with the new battery operated jaws equipment along with the rescue truck that carries the Gary Sinise Foundation Logo. The Gary Sinise Foundation helped fund the purchase of the equipment. Photo provided by Kevin McSherry.