In 1954, the department moved into its new quarters at 161 Vanadium Road. There was now room for a second piece of equipment. The Pennsylvania Boys Reformatory in South Fayette (commonly called the "Oakdale Boys Home") donated a well-used 1948 GMC Panel Truck to the department for use as a Squad. Now, more than two firefighters could ride in safety to the fire scene. About the same time, the Scott Township Police announced their intention to stop providing ambulance service. Glendale Hose Company No. 1 still had an ambulance, but if more than one call came in, the response time would be very long indeed. So, in 1956, Bower Hill began to use this vehicle as an ambulance. Mounting for a wheeled cot was installed, and first aid supplies were added. By 1959, Bower Hill was responding to more ambulance calls than fire calls, and decided to replace this vehicle with one better suited for the purpose.

The photo is not of Bower Hill's vehicle, but of a similar 1948 GMC Panel Truck belonging to another department. If anyone has a picture of Bower Hill's, please let us know.