Fire Commissioners Reach Accord with Union Over Flying American Flag

POUGHKEEPSIE, NY — Arlington Fire District officials have come to an agreement over the issue of having a flag mounted on fire equipment.

The result of a two-and-a-half-hour meeting was that one American flag would be installed on one fire engine and that protocol and standards would be discussed, the Poughkeepsie Journal said.

The flags were put on the trucks at the request of the union, but then were thought to be a liability. It was also thought the display could run contrary to the 1923 Federal Flag Code.

Dutchess County and Town of Poughkeepsie officials reacted favorably to the news.

A statement from Dutchess County Executive Marcus J. Molinaro, Dutchess County Sheriff Adrian “Butch” Anderson, Poughkeepsie Town Supervisor Jay Baisley and Police Chief Ron Spero said that it was appropriate for the firefighters to display the American flag.

“We know the fire chief and chairman of the board both to be active, concerned and dedicated members of our community with a deep commitment to keeping our families safe. Today’s decision enables the men and women of the department to be able to demonstrate their commitment to the ideals embodied within the American flag and pride for one of the country’s great tradition of fire service.”

For more details, read the Poughkeepsie Journal article here.