BATTLE CREEK, Mich –
A surplus military vehicle acquired from Defense Logistics Agency Disposition Services by the Adamsville Police Department in Tennessee proved to be a critical asset during a recent winter ice storm, allowing officers to navigate impassable roads and respond to emergencies.
The department requisitioned a lifted, four-wheel-drive Chevrolet Suburban in 2024 at no cost to the city through DLA’s Law Enforcement Support Office.
During the lengthy storm, which caused extremely hazardous road conditions and widespread utility disruptions, the Suburban was one of only two patrol vehicles capable of safely maneuvering in the jurisdiction.
In a statement, Police Chief Nathan Reagan detailed the vehicle's importance.
"APD has gotten a lot of quality use from this vehicle, however, I would like to highlight the particular success we experienced during this very significant, prolonged winter ice storm that resulted in extremely hazardous weather and roadway conditions as well as prolonged electricity, water, and heat disruptions," Reagan said. "Due to the significant amount of ice on the roadways, as well as downed lines and trees, the roadways in our jurisdiction were rather impassable for several days. APD was left with only one patrol vehicle that could safely maneuver on the roadways. APD was able to utilize the Chevrolet Suburban from LESO to give us two patrol vehicles that allowed our department to not only safely operate but also operate as normal."
Chief Reagan noted that the vehicle was used for patrols 24 hours a day for several days, conducting welfare checks, rescuing stranded motorists, delivering supplies, and evacuating citizens to warming shelters.
"It was even used to transport an individual experiencing a serious mental health issue who had inflicted harm upon themselves from an area of our jurisdiction where an ambulance could not access to a main highway so that the ambulance could treat and transport the individual for care services," Reagan stated.
The chief expressed his gratitude for the program that provided the vehicle.
"APD is extremely grateful for the partnership we have with LESO and extremely appreciative of the support that LESO provides local law enforcement agencies," Reagan said. "It is trying times like these when we are able to truly understand the impact and role that these agencies have on not only our department, but our entire community."