The Aircraft Rescue Fire Fighter (ARFF) team was started in the fall of 2007 because of the Fire District having the responsibility of covering Lewis University Airport (LOT).  The District took over coverage in 2004 from the Village of Romeoville through intergovernmental agreement and, as a result, a need for ARFF coverage of the busy regional airport was realized.  The LTFPD acquired (2) surplus 1992 Amertek airport vehicles from the Minnesota DNR in the fall of 2006 with the intention of providing protection to the airport (see photos of Crash 5 & 6).  Each vehicle carries 1000 gallons of water and 130 gallons of foam (3% AFFF).  In conjunction with the acquisition of the ARFF vehicles, the Fire District also made a commitment to train members in ARFF.  So far, 5 firefighters and 2 lieutenants are Illinois OSFM certified ARFF with the intention of adding more personnel to the team.  All team members undergo annual training in compliance with FAA and OSFM standards in addition to training other members of the Fire District in ARFF procedures.  Members of team include Lt. Michael Lopina (team leader) FF Matt Collier (Asst team leader) Lt. Greg Walling, FF Troy Galetti, FF Arthur (Dale) Jacobs, FF Patrick Schneider and FF Scott Campbell.