March 7, 2006

Dear Fire Officer,

I am writing this letter to the entire membership in order to explain the UFOA's position regarding this year's St. Patrick's Day Parade.

As you know, last year the wearing of green berets was banned. At a meeting last week, Chief Hayden reaffirmed the order for this year's parade as well. Although we know some of our members are disappointed with the decision, we respect the Chief of Department's right to give such an order.

The UFOA will participate in this year's parade and march proudly behind the UFOA banner. We urge all members who choose to march to wear only the proper class “A” uniform, with no adornments. We will march proudly with the FDNY Emerald Society Pipes and Drums and behind the 343 American flags that have become symbolic since September 11, 2001. In addition to the 343 flags, additional flags will also be carried this year for Lt. Meyran, Lt. Bellew, FF Sclafani and for all firefighters killed in the line of duty since 9/11.

We respect the individual rights of our members if you choose not to participate in the parade. We also respect your right to protest. If you choose to protest the parade, please be respectful to those in uniform. There are hordes of press that would love to give the FDNY a cheap shot.

Besides honoring the finest traditions of the FDNY and the Irish American heritage, there is another special reason to march this year. Although we don't have a crystal ball, this may indeed be the last year that Chief Hayden leads the FDNY up Fifth Avenue. Chief Hayden was with us every day at the WTC site as we recovered the remains of our brothers. For the past two years, he has been our Chief of Department. He has stood up for us at City Council when he testified about the CIMS protocol. He stood up against the Mayor and the Fire Commissioner because he knew it was important to firefighters' safety. He has repeatedly taken on the FDNY administration on issues fire officers contend with every tour.

We hope you join us and march up Fifth Avenue, but whatever you choose to do, enjoy the day with your family and friends and have a happy St. Patrick's Day.