Five West Virginia volunteer fire departments — including the Logan County Fire Department Station 2 at Man — are getting more than $322,000 from the federal government to buy equipment.

U.S. Rep. Nick Rahall announced yesterday a grant award of $102, 809 for the fire department at Man as part of the 2009 Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) program.

“Firefighters put their lives on the line for our loved ones and friends every time the alarm sounds,” Rahall said. “I am a long-time member of the House Fire Services Caucus and worked to expand and fund the federal grant program that helps ensure our firefighters have the equipment they need to save lives and protect our communities and to keep them from harm’s way as much as possible.

“I commend Fire Chief Raymond Holt, Captain Joe Wimmer and all those who helped put together the request for federal dollars. Safer communities build a stronger nation. The federal investment we make today in Logan County’s future helps our country’s first line of defense, be it against an accident or a natural disaster, we can count on our first responders being there.”

The grant funding will allow the Logan County Fire Department Station 2 to improve its ability to respond to fires and emergencies by purchasing new firefighting gear, such as fire gear masks and air tanks.

Fire departments can use the grant money to purchase firefighting equipment and personal protective equipment.

“We are extremely thrilled to receive this grant. We would like to thank Congressman Rahall for the help he provided,” Wimmer said.

“These funds will allow us to replace some of our essential firefighting gear.”

U.S. Sens. Robert C. Byrd and Jay Rockefeller announced that the Walkersville Volunteer Fire Department is getting $72,885 and the Salt Rock Volunteer Fire Department in Lincoln County is getting $76,380.

Another $49,638 goes to the Mt. Storm Volunteer Fire Department.

Bluestone Valley Volunteer Fire Department in Spanishburg is receiving $20,425.

“The assistance to firefighters grants are important funding resources for our local communities,” Congressman Rahall said.

“They provide critical support for municipal budgets, allowing communities to keep pace with safety and security needs and demands.”