Fire Tender Trucks Supporting Texas Volunteer Departments

Volunteer fire departments across Texas serve on the front lines with limited resources, aging equipment, and wide coverage areas. When Texas releases grant funding, these departments face immediate pressure to secure reliable equipment and place it into service quickly. Delays are not an option when communities depend on them every day.

Since November 2025, 50 fire tenders have been delivered to Texas volunteer fire departments, helping crews respond faster. Many of these departments operate with small teams, long response distances, and limited maintenance capacity. They need equipment that is dependable, straightforward to operate, and ready to work from day one so they can focus on protecting lives, property, and the communities they serve.

heavy duty fire tender truck built for long distance emergency response

Behind every delivery is a department balancing grant timelines, training schedules, and real world emergencies. Volunteer firefighters often serve their own neighbors, families, and rural communities, relying on equipment that can perform reliably under pressure. Supporting those departments means understanding the urgency they face and helping ensure critical equipment is in service when it is needed most.

Manufacturing tough, innovative equipment that moves you forward is more than a mission. It is a commitment to the volunteer fire departments that protect Texas every day.

Texas fire tender truck supporting volunteer fire department response

Carrying History Forward: A Custom Truck Built for the Steel Across America Tour

Custom Gull Wing truck transporting 9/11 steel beam

Ledwell is honored to support the Tunnel to Towers Foundation as part of the Steel Across America tour, a nationwide mission transporting a steel beam from the World Trade Center to communities across the country. The tour marks 25 years of memory – bringing Americans together around a powerful symbol of resilience and remembrance.

The Mission Behind the Steel Across America Tour

To support this mission, Ledwell engineered and built a custom Gull Wing Truck designed specifically to haul the steel beam recovered from the South Tower. Built to carry more than steel, the truck helps bring a place of remembrance to every community it visits.

Truck built for Steel Across America tour carrying memorial beam

Connecting Communities Through a Rolling Memorial

The Steel Across America tour is currently visiting 35 cities across 21 states, connecting families, first responders, veterans, and local communities through shared remembrance. Each stop reinforces the importance of never forgetting and passing that legacy on to future generations.

For Ledwell, this project represents more than equipment. It reflects a commitment to doing the work the right way and standing alongside partners who serve with purpose. We are proud to play a small role in carrying this piece of history across America, mile by mile.

Some loads carry weight. Others carry history.

View Steel Across America tour dates and locations or find a stop near you.

Close-up of steel beam to be loaded in Custom Gull Wing truck for Steel Across America tour
Custom Gull Wing truck transporting 9/11 steel beam

Will Murrah

Employee Spotlight - Will Murrah

Will Murrah has been a key part of the Ledwell team for the past three years, serving as our Transportation Coordinator and helping keep deliveries moving forward every single day. In a role where timing and communication matter, Will brings the kind of dependability that defines what it means to be Ledwell Made.

At home, Will is just as dedicated. He has been married to his wife, Kristi, for five years, and together they are raising their son, with another child on the way. Family is at the center of everything he does, and it is the same value that draws him to Ledwell. “It’s the family feel here,” Will says. “Our team is in sync, and I wouldn’t ask them to do anything that I wouldn’t do myself.”

A typical day for Will starts early, making sure every driver is ready for the road. From there, he is already planning ahead, lining up deliveries for the next day and often several days out. Some days require him to stay on the phone, tracking trucks and solving problems as they come up. “Sometimes I’m chasing trucks all day,” he says, “but I enjoy it.” That commitment ensures our customers experience the kind of responsiveness Ledwell is known for.

What most people may not realize is that Will’s job does not stop when he leaves the yard. If a driver runs into trouble or gets stranded, he is often the first call, stepping in to help however he can. That level of support reflects the strong partnerships we believe in and the responsibility we take in standing behind every delivery.

One of Will’s proudest accomplishments is helping ship 50 trucks in a single day, a milestone that speaks to both his work ethic and his ability to coordinate under pressure. It is a clear example of Ledwell’s Unrivaled Responsiveness in action.

Will has learned an important lesson that he carries into everything he does: leave no job unfinished. That mindset keeps operations running smoothly and ensures every detail is handled with care, reinforcing the quality and reliability our customers depend on.

Will is also continuing to grow through Ledwell’s SEED program, where he has gained a deeper understanding of the work happening across the company. One of his biggest takeaways has been seeing just how much is built in-house, especially after spending time in the Machine Shop and learning how those processes support the larger operation.

Will finds his motivation in the drivers he works with every day. “They depend on me, and I’m not going to let them down,” he says. That sense of responsibility, combined with his commitment to teamwork, reflects the grit that drives Ledwell forward.

Thank you, Will, for your hard work, your dedication, and for helping move Ledwell forward.

Employee Spotlight - Will Murrah

Keeping Trailers Rolling With a Tire Inflation System

trailer equipped with tire inflation system

Result: Less than 30 minutes of downtime instead of hours roadside.

Justin Holmes is a District Sales Manager with 18 years of experience. His perspective on the tire inflation system stems from his time as an Area General Manager, during which he was directly responsible for fleet uptime and daily operations. Over the years, Justin has seen firsthand how the right trailer specs can make a real difference in productivity, reliability, and overall cost of ownership.

A trailer tire inflation system can be the difference between hours of roadside downtime and staying on schedule.

 

The Cost of Trailer Tire Downtime

Unplanned tire failures are one of the most common causes of trailer downtime. A single damaged tire can shut down a unit for hours, disrupt deliveries, and rack up service costs. For rental fleets operating on tight schedules, those delays add up fast.

Justin has spent nearly two decades managing and supporting fleet operations. His team depends on trailers that are ready to work every morning and capable of handling real job site conditions without constant surprises.

 

How a Trailer Tire Inflation System Prevented a Shutdown

While exiting a job site, a driver clipped the right rear wheel of a trailer on a newly installed curb. The outside tire suffered a significant cut to the exterior sidewall. Almost immediately, the trailer’s tire inflation system indicator light came on.

The driver safely pulled over to inspect the damage and heard a hissing sound from the tire. In the past, an issue like this would have meant parking the trailer on the roadside and waiting hours for a service truck.

After assessing the situation, the driver determined the trailer could be moved a short distance back to the branch for repair. Despite the visible damage and air loss, the installed tire inflation system continued supplying enough pressure to help the tire maintain its shape. 

Dispatch contacted the tire shop located next door to the branch while the driver was en route. Once back, the driver unloaded, pulled next door, and had the tire repaired immediately.

Total operational impact: Less than 30 minutes.

Without the inflation system, the outcome would have been very different. The driver would have remained parked roadside while dispatch arranged service. Even in a best‑case scenario, downtime would have been around two hours. More commonly, Justin’s team sees three to four hours of lost productivity for a single tire event.

Beyond lost time, roadside service calls cost much more than bringing equipment directly to a shop. For this one incident alone, Justin estimates savings of $400 to $500.

 

Operational and Cost Benefits for Fleet Managers

Reduced Downtime and Faster Repairs

Since installing the tire inflation system, Justin has seen improvements beyond emergency situations. Fewer morning surprises from flat or underinflated tires have helped keep equipment ready to work when the day begins.

Improved Tire Life and Daily Reliability

Justin has also noticed more even tire wear compared to trailers without the system. Driver confidence has increased, especially when it comes to interior tires that are harder to visually inspect. Immediate notification when an issue occurs allows teams to address problems before damage escalates.

The indicator light has become one of the most valued features, alerting drivers the moment there is a problem rather than discovering it hours later.

 

Return on Investment Over the Life of a Trailer

While Justin stops short of assigning an exact dollar figure to total savings, the math extends beyond emergency breakdowns alone. Over the life of a trailer, it would take only about six incidents like this to cover the cost of the system. However, even without frequent roadside events, the system continues to deliver value through more consistent tire pressure, more even tire wear, and fewer premature replacements. Those everyday savings add up quietly over time, reducing tire spend across the fleet while improving reliability. Everything beyond those initial scenarios becomes pure cost savings.

 

Built for Safety and Long-Term Reliability

Justin has long trusted Ledwell trailers for their durability and support, but he believes the tire inflation system has become the single most influential differentiator in trailer specifications.

“I would not consider purchasing another trailer without it being installed,” he says.

From safety and uptime to long‑term cost control, the system has proven itself where it matters most, on the road and on the job site.

Although the system has not been in service long enough for full lifecycle data, Justin anticipates a 15-25% improvement in tire life compared to trailers without inflation systems. Even without those final numbers, the early results have already justified the decision.

From productivity and customer experience to cost savings and fleet reliability, he believes tire inflation systems should be a standard specification, not an upgrade.

For operations that cannot afford downtime, this system helps keep trailers working, drivers moving, and schedules intact, exactly what Ledwell equipment is built to do.

trailer equipped with tire inflation system

Casey Hanes

Employee Spotlight - May 2026 Casey Hanes

When you walk into Ledwell Machinery, the first person you are likely to see is Casey Hanes, and he is almost always ready with a friendly smile. Casey started at Ledwell in 2019, working in the Brake & Shear department, and moved into his current role as Parts Sales at Ledwell Machinery in 2022. Since then, he has become a familiar face for customers and coworkers alike.

Casey’s day is semi-typical but always busy. He opens the store each morning, checks service and parts tickets, and notifies customers with updates. He keeps track of inventory and restocks parts as needed to keep things running smoothly. Throughout the day, Casey helps customers who call or stop by looking for outdoor equipment parts or new equipment, making sure they get what they need as efficiently as possible.

What Casey enjoys most about working at Ledwell Machinery is the atmosphere. He appreciates the family feel that extends across the entire Ledwell organization and says it makes him feel appreciated and valued. That sense of pride shows in how he treats customers and in his approach to his work each day.

One accomplishment Casey is especially proud of is helping with the store’s remodeling. “I feel it welcomes customers with products they didn’t know we offered,” he said. The updated space has helped showcase more of what Ledwell Machinery can provide and has improved the overall customer experience.

The most valuable lesson Casey has learned is that hard work pays off. He believes doing things the right way will take you far, a mindset that fits well with Ledwell’s commitment to quality and long-term relationships.

Outside of work, Casey keeps busy with family and hobbies. He enjoys spending time with his wife, Stephanie, and his daughter, Veda. When he gets a little downtime, you can usually find him playing a round of golf or picking up his guitar.

Casey’s positive attitude and strong work ethic make a lasting impression, and we are proud to have him on the Ledwell team.

Employee Spotlight - May 2026
Employee Spotlight - May 2026 Casey Hanes

Decades of Grit: Ledwell Through the Years

The Ledwell company history is a story built on hard work and a commitment to doing things the right way. What began in 1946 with Buddy Ledwell hauling lumber in Texarkana, Texas, has grown into a family-owned American manufacturer trusted across industries for tough, dependable trucks and trailers. Through every decade, Ledwell has answered real world challenges with equipment built to last, swift support when it matters most, and innovation grounded in experience. This timeline traces the milestones that shaped Ledwell into what it is today, and continues to move the world forward.

Ledwell and Son original manufactured truck body
Early Ledwell Feed Truck

1940’s

1946 Buddy Ledwell and his father started hauling lumber in Texarkana, Texas.

 

1950’s

1950 Ledwell shifted from hauling to building pick-up racks.
1955Ledwell began manufacturing dump trucks.
Moved to the Waco Street shop.
1957 First Feed Body sold & delivered 100 miles away—Ledwell started expanding reach.

 

1960’s

1963 Became a Bobcat Dealer.

Bobcat dealer since 1963
satellite project by Ledwell
Buddy Ledwell as Mr. McCluskey in Bootleggers movie

1970’s

1971 Built Satellite Antenna and shipped to South America in sections.
1972–1976 Ledwell Film Distribution helped release:
Legend of Boggy Creek (1972)
Bootleggers (1974)
Winter Hawk (1975)
1976 HydraTail Trailer was introduced.
1977 First Water Trucks were built.

 

1980’s

1980Invested in CNC Machine
First step in automating parts production.

 

1990’s

1990 Machine Shop was modernized, and production capacity expanded.
1999 Products began shipping internationally.

Ledwell enters international shipping in the 1980s
CNC Robotic Welder

2000’s

2008 North Carolina Office opened.
2009 Ledwell Machinery opens, offering Bobcat, Toro and Argo equipment.
Partnered with First Response Team of America.

 

2010’s

2010 Entered Vacuum Truck industry.
2012 Ledwell Office opened.
2013 First Truck Mounted Attenuator was built.
2016 First Gull Wing was manufactured.
2017 Added Powder Coating facility.
First Robot Welder was installed.
2019 Built first HydraTilt Truck.

 

2020’s

2020 MaxTilt Trailer was released.
Solar Lift Loading Ramp won Innovation Award.
2022 Patent was received for Gull Wing, HydraTilt Truck & MaxTilt Trailer.
2023 Manufacturing expanded by 63,000 sq. ft.
2025 Opened Ledwell Advanced Imaging.

Mike Hall

Ledwell Employee Spotlight Mike Hall

Since joining Ledwell in 2024, Mike Hall has become a valued part of our IT team. As one of our IT Technicians, Mike helps keep the systems behind the scenes running the way they should, so the rest of the team can focus on getting the job done.

Mike earned his Associate’s degree in Computer Technology and Information Systems from Texarkana College, bringing both technical knowledge and a practical mindset to his role. No two days look the same for him. He checks systems daily to ensure everything is operating correctly and addresses new challenges as they arise.

What Mike enjoys most about working at Ledwell is the people. “Everyone is really nice,” he says. That sense of family and teamwork shows up in his day‑to‑day work, especially since most people would be surprised to learn that Mike talks with someone from nearly every department, every single day.

One project Mike is especially proud of is helping get Ledwell Advanced Imaging up and running. Starting from the ground up, the project involved new machines, new systems, and learning an entirely new set of medical rules. “We basically started from scratch,” Mike explains, taking on the challenge with determination and focus.

The Ledwell value Mike connects with most is Grit. “Some things have to be done no matter what,” he says. “Getting those things done takes a lot of grit.”

That mindset also ties into how he defines Ledwell Made: quality equipment, backed by real support.

What motivates Mike to show up every day is simple: being reliable. That dependability makes a difference across the company and reflects what Ledwell stands for.

Outside of work, Mike enjoys watching Rangers games and spending time at the range doing target practice.

We’re glad to have Mike on the team and appreciate the grit, reliability, and behind‑the‑scenes support he brings to Ledwell every day.

Ledwell Employee Spotlight Mike Hall

Jason Pond

Ledwell Employee Spotlight - Jason Pond

Jason “Catfish” Pond has been a dedicated part of the Ledwell family since 2000. He began his career in the kit bay, where he pulled together the parts needed for each truck order. Today, he handles input for truck parts on both new and service orders, and his work touches nearly every corner of the shop. Jason keeps production moving by entering parts into orders, moving units forward in the build process, and hanging work orders. His day is filled with countless small but important tasks that help the shop run smoothly. What many may not realize is how much time and attention to detail his job requires, and he takes pride in doing it right.

When asked what he enjoys most about working at Ledwell, Jason does not hesitate. He says it is the people. Over the years, he has learned the value of a simple principle: show up. That mindset, paired with a strong sense of grit, shapes the way he approaches his work. He likes to get things done the way they need to be done, with a steady, reliable presence that his team can count on.

To Jason, “Ledwell Made” means doing the job right and fixing it if it is not.

His motivation comes from the work itself and from the atmosphere created by the people around him. He genuinely loves what he does, and that passion shows in every task he takes on.

Outside the shop, Jason enjoys a full and active life. He has been married to his wife, Barbara, for 25 years, and together they have raised three daughters. When he is not at Ledwell, he spends his time fishing, hunting, and being with his family. His love of the outdoors mirrors the grounded, hardworking spirit he brings to his role every day.

Ledwell Employee Spotlight - Jason Pond

Ledwell to Showcase Historic World Trade Center Beam at CONEXPO 2026

Tunnel to Towers Foundation to feature World Trade Center Beam in Ledwell's booth at Conexpo 2026

Ledwell and the Tunnel to Towers Foundation will bring a powerful piece of American history to CONEXPO this year, displaying an authentic beam recovered from the World Trade Center. The beam will be featured in Ledwell’s booth S62747 in the South Hall, Level 1, where attendees can learn about Tunnel to Towers, their mission, and the nationwide journey ahead. This rare World Trade Center beam exhibit offers families a meaningful opportunity to connect with American history.

The beam will travel across the country from May through September as part of the Foundation’s Steel Across America campaign, a moving tribute to the lives lost on September 11, 2001, and the heroes who stepped forward in the aftermath. At every stop, Tunnel to Towers will share its mission of supporting Gold Star and fallen first responder families, catastrophically injured heroes, homeless veterans, and helping America keep its vow to Never Forget 9/11.

Ledwell is honored to support this effort by building a patented Gull Wing Truck to transport the beam throughout its tour.

Visitors to CONEXPO are encouraged to stop by Ledwell’s booth to view the beam, meet Foundation representatives, and learn more about Tunnel to Towers and the work they do across the nation.

Drake Morgan

Ledwell Buddy Award winner 2026 - Drake Morgan

Since 2021, Drake Morgan has played an essential role on the Pattern Torch night shift. As Night Shift Supervisor, he keeps production moving while most of the world sleeps, ensuring every part is cut accurately and ready for the next step by sunrise.

Drake takes pride in how he tackles challenges. When something goes wrong, he does not get discouraged. He leans in, finds the issue, and gets things back on track. His problem solving skills set the tone for his team and show the kind of leadership they can count on.

Many people assume the Pattern Torch crew only moves material on and off the table, but Drake knows the job is far more technical. “You see us taking material on and off the table, but what you do not always see is the machine programming and technical side that tells the torch how to cut the parts,” he explains. His work requires focus, precision, and a strong understanding of the equipment.

During his time at Ledwell, Drake has learned that hard work truly pays off. The value he connects with most is Grit. As he puts it, “No matter how hard the work is, I get it done.” That attitude defines how he approaches every shift, every challenge, and every responsibility.

Drake’s foreman, Tim Snider, sees that effort daily. “He does what I ask and more. Drake steps up to do what needs to be done,” Tim says. Drake stands out because he shows up fully, follows through, and helps wherever he is needed.

Outside of work, Drake keeps busy on his homestead, where he raises goats and rabbits, and he enjoys hunting. His steady, hardworking nature carries through every part of his life.

To Drake, “Ledwell Made” means a quality product that lasts forever. He takes pride in knowing that the parts he cuts help create equipment customers rely on for the long haul.

Thank you, Drake, for your hard work, grit, and commitment. We appreciate everything you bring to the team.

Ledwell Buddy Award winner - Drake Morgan
Ledwell Buddy Award winner 2026 - Drake Morgan