BOSTON -- Senators John Kerry and Edward Kennedy, along with Congressman Ed Markey, today announced that the Lexington Police Department will receive $18,856 and the Lexington Fire Department will receive $17,167. Both grants are from the Department of Homeland Security as part of its Commercial Equipment Direct Assistance Program (CEDAP).

“Our first responders put their lives on the line and the least we can do is give them the very best equipment. This funding will allow the Lexington Police and Fire Departments to purchase the tools they need to get the job done and maximize safety,” said Senator Kerry. “I commend DHS for providing our state’s law enforcement agencies with the equipment and technology they need, and I’m grateful to the men and women of both departments for their dedication and hard work.”

“I commend the police officers and firefighters of Lexington on their hard work and dedication to public safety,” said Senator Kennedy.  “They risk their lives each day to protect the citizens of Lexington and deserve the best possible equipment to help them in their jobs they do so well. This federal funding is well-deserved.”

Rep. Markey said, "Firefighters and police officers in Lexington are committed to ensuring the safety and security of the Town and these new grants will enhance their ability to do so.  As a senior member of the Homeland Security Committee in Congress, I know that these men and women are our hometown heroes.  But heroes need help too.  I commend the Town of Lexington for its persistence in obtaining these important federal funds."

CEDAP provides first response training and equipment to law enforcement agencies and other emergency responders.

$36.4 million in equipment and training has been awarded under the Department of Homeland Security to 2,000 first responder agencies nationally as part of FY 2006. For more information on CEDAP visit: http://www.ojp.usdoj.gov/odp/equipment_cedap.htm