HUDSON, FL - The first alarm to come in for the area of Hudson was on July 28, 1964. The Fire Department came about with 10 men ready to give their time and energy along with the Hudson Community Club the Fire Department began. The first fire truck was purchased for this area for $1,000, and with local businesses and donated work, the truck was equipped. The next thing needed was a place to hold the truck and with the help of many in the area, the first of many bricks were laid by Mr. Carl Mattix. This was completed by the early part of 1965. Carl and his brothers, Marvin, Stephen and Gary, were just a few of the first volunteers.

Excerpts from the book “History of Fire Departments in Pasco County Fl” indicated that this new part of the county needed more. A second piece was needed, and the Hudson Marina gave a station wagon equipped with a stretcher, oxygen and first aid supplies. They now had their first rescue unit for the West Pasco County. Months went by and they expanded the fleet of trucks to four, with the addition of two brush trucks.

On Friday, March 21^st, the Pasco Fire Department held an open house for Station 3 on State Rd 52, commemorating 50 years of the Fire Department with family, friends and dignitaries. A new white Emergency One Engine was placed in service within this past year and is painted white to celebrate the 50 year anniversary of Pasco Fire Rescue. In the first years, the engines were white. There is a special emblem on Engine 3 with a 50 year celebration. On the side of the engine are patches (stickers), noting all of the former fire departments within Pasco County.