Abstract: A construction for use in storing of a ladder above an emergency vehicle during times of non-usage which is automatically movable to a retrieval position extending laterally outwardly from an emergency vehicle to facilitate removal of equipment therefrom such as a ladder. A boom is movable through an approximate 90 degree arc and when in the upright position is capable of being latched in place by a latching mechanism having a latching arm formed of a switching segment being capable of abutment with a limit switch and a locking segment adapted to engage a latching lug fixedly secured to the boom for retaining the apparatus in the upright position. The boom is operated by a primary hydraulic drive cylinder and the latching apparatus is driven by a secondary drive apparatus which includes an axially extensible coupling to facilitate latching of the boom in a storage position.