Friday, October 7, 2005
Contact: Spence Jackson, 573-751-0290
Blunt Flies Flags at Half-Staff as a Tribute to Fallen Firefighters
JEFFERSON CITY–As the nation recognizes fallen firefighters this weekend, Gov. Matt Blunt has ordered all flags on state facilities to be flown at half-staff.
"As the nation remembers fallen heroes this weekend, Missouri mourns the loss of Gerald McGowan and Steve Fierro," Blunt said. "This weekend we recognize the ultimate sacrifice that our firefighters and their families make for the safety and protection of all Missourians. We should all take time this weekend to recognize the loss of our fallen heroes and be thankful for the service of our firefighters."
Over the weekend, activities are scheduled at the National Fire Academy in Emmitsburg, Md. On Oct. 9 in a national memorial service, the names of two fallen Missouri firefighters, Gerald McGowan (Kansas City FD) and Steve Fierro (Carthage FD) will be added to the National Memorial Wall.
On Oct. 16, 2001, President George W. Bush approved legislation requiring the American flag to be lowered to half-staff on all Federal buildings to memorialize fallen firefighters.
Flags will remain at half-staff through Monday, Oct. 10.
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