Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis was joined by Governor Ron DeSantis, Attorney General Ashley Moody, and Agriculture Commissioner Nikki Fried in honoring Florida’s 197 fallen firefighters who lost their lives in the line of duty during the ‘Ringing of the Bell’ Ceremony. In 2017 and 2018, Florida lost four firefighters: Jeffrey Atkinson from the Tallahassee Fire Department, Steven R. Terry from the Hernando County Fire Rescue, Michael G. Camelo, Jr. from the Cape Coral Fire Department, and Daryel Richards from Hollywood Fire Rescue.
CFO and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis said, “Today’s ceremony is a humbling reminder of the real sacrifices made every day by Florida’s brave firefighters and first responders. Words cannot express the gratitude we have for the selfless service of these courageous men and women. We will never forget their commitment and dedication to the safety of our communities and protecting the state of Florida.”
Governor Ron DeSantis said, “Florida’s fallen firefighters gave the ultimate sacrifice in duty to their communities and I was proud to take part in the Ringing of the Bell to honor their lives and legacies today. The service and sacrifice of these heroes to our state must never be forgotten.”
Attorney General Ashley Moody said, “Florida’s firefighters exemplify courage and bravery, and I was truly humbled today to honor the memory of the brave men and women of our firefighting community who gave their lives in service to others. Florida is safer because of their sacrifice.”
Agriculture Commissioner Nikki Fried said, “Today, I was proud to honor the lives of Florida’s fallen firefighters. These men and women are the husbands, wives, brothers, sisters, and friends that risked everything to make our communities a safer place to live. May these heroes rest in peace.”
About CFO Jimmy Patronis
Chief Financial Officer and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis is a statewide elected official and a member of Florida’s Cabinet who oversees the Department of Financial Services. CFO Patronis works each day to fight insurance fraud, support Florida’s firefighters, and ensure the state’s finances are stable to support economic growth in the state. Follow the activities of the Department on Facebook (FLDFS) and Twitter (@FLDFS).
