PLATTSBURGH -- More than a dozen firefighters somberly watched their flag be lowered Sunday as dispatch sounded the final call for Rescue Hose Co. No. 5.

The fire company was founded in 1895, and in 1981, it refocused its mission to become a primary source of air supply for firefighters throughout Clinton County.

"We have two trucks, 291 and 292, that hold tanks. We fill those tanks with clean air using an air compressor, and then we bring them to the scene of fires," said Kelly Donoghue, president and chaplain at Rescue Hose 5.

"We're there for the firefighters. If they need a backup tank, Rescue Hose has it ready for them."

BUDGET CUT

As of Dec. 31, Rescue Hose 5 will no longer be active in the community.

The City of Plattsburgh had paid about $30,000 a year to support the department, with each fire company in the county chipping in $700.

The city, facing financial strains, decided in May to cut the Rescue Hose 5 budget.

The closing ceremony held Sunday signified the end of more than 110 years of dedicated service.

"It is a sad day," said Scott Alger, fire-prevention chairman of Rescue Hose 5.

"But with the economy, taxes, fuel prices and everything else, the budget had to be cut. Unfortunately, our station was part of the cut."

Rescue Hose 5 Fire Chief Keith Matott said the company was given many options, but the best solution available was to close and merge with Mooers and South Plattsburgh fire departments.

"Our trucks will be going to Mooers and South Plattsburgh, and most of our members will be transferring to different stations as well. I'll be going to Beekmantown as a firefighter."

VETERAN MEMBER

One of the quietest attendees Sunday was Ambrose Kipp, an 85-year-old active firefighter for Rescue Hose 5. He has been with the company since 1949 and continues to serve the department on a regular basis.