Louisville Auxiliary Fire Service & Civil Defense

From World War II into the Cold War “air-raid” period, vital American fire departments were augmented by an Auxiliary Fire Service under the Civil Defense Auxiliary. Volunteer members trained with their municipal peers and participated in local fire prevention activities. Each of Louisville's engine and quad companies were assigned an Auxiliary Engine, which were all commercial trucks outfitted for firefighting. The Civil Defense Auxiliary was also equipped to provide first-aid and rescue services. As paranoia and tension eased in the 1950s, these forces disbanded and many of their apparatus were given to local fire departments.