Flagler County is inviting the public to attend the Transfer of Command ceremony and installation of Fire Rescue Chief Michael Tucker at 2:30 p.m. at the Emergency Services Building, 1769 E. Moody Boulevard, Building 3, Bunnell.
“This is an important event for our Fire Rescue Department, for our community, and for us as a governmental body,” said Interim County Administrator Heidi Petito. “Everyone is welcome to join for this ceremony and in giving our warmest welcome to Chief Tucker.”
The Flagler County Sheriff’s Office will do the Presentation of Colors. Chaplain George Huhn will give the invocation. Human Resources Director Pam Wu will administer the Oath of Office. Palm Coast Fire Lt. Patrick Juliano will provide a traditional bagpipe tribute.
Tucker will serve as Fire Rescue Chief to more than 100 Flagler County firefighter paramedics. He will fill the shoes as the permanent replacement of Don Petito, who retired nearly a year to the day of Tucker taking charge.
The Board of County Commissioners were introduced to Tucker during their June 7 regular board meeting.
“Flagler County Fire Rescue has a strong reputation,” he said then. “I look forward to be able to help the organization continue to move forward and hopefully help the organization become stronger.”
Tucker last worked as the Superintendent at the Florida State Fire College, Bureau of Fire Standards, Division of State Fire Marshal, where he had oversight of the curriculums and programs required for the certification of the state’s 70,000 firefighters, fire inspectors, arson investigators, and fire instructors.
Tucker is also a consultant with Emergency Services Consulting International where he is responsible for preparing proposals, project management, and providing recommendations for professional reports. He previously served as fire chief for The Villages.
In addition to his credentials within the firefighting industry – notably the distinction of Executive Fire Officer achieved through the National Fire Academy in Emmitsburg, MD – Tucker has a master’s degree in Public Administration.
“It is an honor to welcome Chief Tucker to Flagler County,” said Commission Chair Donald O’Brien. “His credentials are impeccable. We are very fortunate that he’s chosen to call Flagler home.”
Media Release: Flagler County, Julie Murphy. MPIO
