BAY MINETTE, Alabama — The Bay Minette Fire Department officially recently rolled its new custom pumper truck into service and honored one of its own in the process.
The 2020 Ferrara Custom fire truck was dedicated in the memory of former Fire Chief Jesse "Jiggs” Gregson, who spent more than 30 years with the department. His family and friends were on hand for the ceremony, which took place following the July 20 city council meeting.
Gregson began his career as a firefighter in 1977 and worked his way through the ranks, serving as a lieutenant, captain, assistant chief and finally as fire chief from 2005-2008. He died in 2019.
“Chief Gregson loved his department and his guys and was willing to help his city any way he could, he was always willing to lend a hand to help,” said Fire Chief Mike Minchew, who served under Gregson.
“After retirement Jiggs was still coming by the fire department to check on the guys just to see how things were going,” Minchew said.
In addition to being one of “best pump operators around,” Minchew said that Jiggs was also a great person and friend to all and is very missed at the station. “We, as a department, cannot thank Chief Jessie Gregson enough for his leadership, knowledge and friendship.”
The new fire truck will replace two older trucks and “will be able to carry all the equipment that will be needed on just about any call that the department may respond to in and around our city,” Minchew said.
Mayor Bob Wills offered his praise to both Minchew and Gregson for their leadership within the Fire Department. “I want to thank Chief Mike Minchew for requesting the dedication of our new fire truck in honor of former Fire Chief Jiggs Gregson. It is always good to be able to recognize those who have been loyal employees of our City,” Wills said. “Also, we are glad to be able to add this new truck to our fleet. It will help us to continue to provide the best services possible to our citizens.”
