CNBNews

 Through Congressman Andrews’s support, the city was able to secure a $1.2 million FEMA Port Security grant that made this amazing boat a reality.

 The “George M. Jackson” is a one of a kind vessel that is capable of responding to everything from simple emergencies to natural disasters and terrorism.  The jet driven boat can reach speeds over 43 knots (50 mph on water) and can pump over 11,000 gallons of water per minute.  The state-of-the-art boat is equipped with the latest navigation and communication tools as well as a thermal imaging camera to find victims that may not be visible to the naked eye and has a reinforced hull for winter operations.  This vessel is able to fight fires with water or foam, minimize the impact of hazardous materials, has a decontamination chamber to filter out harmful viruses and bacteria upon a person’s arrival onto the ship, and can support dive and rescue recovery missions.

 

“Making the Camden waterfront safer is a top priority, and having the resources to bring our level of police and fire protection to where we need it to be will bring businesses and jobs by making the waterfront stronger and safer to do business or visit here,” said Congressman Andrews.  “This boat provides an answer to the question – ‘how do we make the waterfront safer?’ and it is with great respect and honor that we dedicate this boat in the name of George M. Jackson who sacrificed his life for that cause.”

 

The new fire rescue boat was named after George Malcolm Jackson.  Mr. Jackson was born on February 21, 1939.  While fighting a fire on Sunday, October 21, 1990, he was tragically injured in the line of duty after 23 years of service.  On March 7, 2006, he peacefully succumbed to those injuries.