ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. – City officials held a ceremony Monday honoring the St. Petersburg Fire Department’s first black firefighters.
Known as The Legacy Six, the men joined the department in 1972. Riley Preston Floyd, Stanton Singletary, Eddie Utley, Alfonso Borwn, Willie Barnes and Eugene Curry entered the profession during a time of significant social and racial barriers.
In a released statement, city officials said the six men’s commitment to public service not only protected the community but also helped transform the culture and future of the department.
During Monday’s recognition ceremony, fire officials unveiled the Legacy Six Dedication Plaque, which will be permanently displayed at fire rescue headquarters on MLK Jr. Street South.
Also, a Legacy Six Scholarship has been established that will be awarded yearly to a Pinellas County student to honor the group and continue a commitment to service and opportunity.