Mayor Lenny Curry announced via press release this afternoon that he has asked members of his staff to install the necessary hardware to raise flags of the five military branches alongside the U.S. flag in front of City Hall. The announcement comes exactly a week following July 4th celebrations.
“A week ago, as I sat on the south bank of the St. Johns, my family and I enjoyed the fireworks and celebrations with our downtown as a backdrop,” Curry says in the release. “As the fun of the evening faded and we returned home, I spent some time reflecting about our city and our nation. My grandfathers and my father came to mind as I thought of the many men, women and families who have sacrificed by serving in our military to defend our way of life.”
He goes on to allude to the city’s strong military history, citing the active naval base, and further references the “thousands upon thousands” of Jacksonville residents who have served in the military over the years.
Most recent census numbers indicate that roughly 11% of Jax residents are military veterans.
Mayor Curry says he “want[s] everyone who works in or visits City Hall to be reminded of the dedication of our Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force and Coast Guard.”
The flags will be installed in Hemming Park “in an array” next to the U.S. flag across the street from City Hall.
