FIREBOAT "ROBERT C."

Marine 1 working at a boat fire at the Lobster House docks

Marine 1 is a 35-ft. all-aluminum fishing boat with a single Volvo engine.  It was purchased from a local commercial fidherman who used it for his pot traps.  In 1991, Town Bank bought her and extensively refurbished her, installing a larger fuel tank, instrument console, marine electronics and fire radio equipment.  A 1000 GPM farmer's irrigation pump sits in the cockpit piped directly through the hull, enabling us to to fire up the pump while enroute to a scene.  A bow-mounted deck gun piped with a 5" line can supply 1000 GPM at the tip.  Next to the pump is a riser pipe, which has three (3) 2-1/2" discharges.  These can be used for handlines or additional deck guns off the stern of the boat.  Marine 1 can also be used as a "floating hydrant", supplying an inland fire scene.  Many local business owners helped out with the construction of Marine 1, through donations, their time and expertise, or a reduced cost of equipment.   Many thanks go out to these men and women of Lower Township and Cape May - without them, this unit may not be possible.

The name "Robert C" comes from Robert Keith Coombs, a Life Member of Town Bank Fire Company whose idea it was to look into starting a marine unit for our community.  Bob is also credited with starting Town Bank's Dive Team.  His love for recreational diving carried over to the firehouse where the Dive Unit still operates today.

Bob never got to see the completion of Marine 1.  Tragically, he was killed in an automobile accident prior to us starting work on the boat.  All the firefighters got together and thought it only fitting that the boat be named after him - "Robert C."  His memory lives on aboard Marine 1 and in our hearts