Special pontoon boat dedicated to first responders

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- The Bend Band of Brothers dedicated a pontoon boat Wednesday morning to recognize police, fire, medical and military first responders. The boat is named "First Responder" in honor of them.

A tree limb had crushed most of the boat, but for about nine months, the Band of Brothers and other volunteers remodeled it with largely donated materials.

One of the leaders of the effort explained why the boat is dedicated to first responders.

"It became important to recognize those that are serving others, past and present," Band of Brothers member Michael Cleavenger said. "The idea just came up that we need to do something to recognize the sacrifices that people are making right now, and have made."

The boat will be going in East Lake for use by first responders and veterans.