Senator Justice and Governor Crist Hold Ceremonial Bill Signing for the Firefighter Memorial Flag

From the Senate Dems:

Senator Charlie Justice (D-St. Petersburg), along with Governor Charlie Crist and Representative Bill Heller (D- St. Petersburg) joined firefighters from across Pinellas County today for the ceremonial bill signing of Senate Bill 198 creating the official Fallen Firefighter Memorial Flag.

“This flag is tribute to the 144 brave men and women who have given their lives protecting their communities,” said Senator Justice. “It is a small but very important act creating this testament to their sacrifice.”

The idea for a Florida Fallen Firefighter Memorial Flag was originally brought to Senator Justice by Oldsmar Fire Rescue Chief, Scott McGuff. A statewide call for designs generated hundreds of ideas. The official design was created by Firefighter Rick Weschler of the Palm Harbor Fire Rescue. The flag will be displayed at funerals and memorials for fallen firefighters, at fire stations, at the official Fallen Firefighter Memorial in Ocala, FL, as well as any other location designated by the State Fire Marshal. Chief McGuff and Firefighter Weschler were recognized at the ceremony for their contribution.

“I cannot tell you how honored I am to help facilitate the creation of this flag. I’m proud that it was a local initiative from my district that made it happen,” Senator Justice added.