A firefighter in Langley, B.C., has been disciplined for flying the fire hall's flag at half-mast to commemorate the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks in New York City.
The senior firefighter, whose name has not been released, insisted on lowering the flag last month despite orders to observe the anniversary of the attacks under a raised flag.
Officials say the fire department had asked for permission to lower the flag from the city, but were denied.
"Based on the protocol, Sept. 11 is not one of the days that's recognized for lowering the flag," city administrator Francis Cheung told ctvbc.ca.
Heritage Canada has an official policy that suggests when the flag should be half or full-mast. It also outlines when the prime minister has discretionary authority to approve a flag lowering. Sept. 11 is not listed.
"We researched the protocol with the federal government," Cheung said. "We advised the firefighters and crew that they cannot lower the flag, but we are more than supportive of them having a ceremony around the flag and having a moment of silence."
But one member was unsatisfied with a half-hearted, full-mast ceremony.
Cheung could not confirm reports that the firefighter was suspended from his job, but said the matter was investigated and disciplinary action was agreed upon.
Such action can range from verbal or written discipline to termination.
Langley acknowledges its approach isn't shared by all. Vancouver's fire department, for one, does lower its flags.
"Lowering the flag is an incredibly emotional and important event and to lower the flag means that we're showing the utmost respect for a person who has fallen in the line of duty," said Gabe Roder, Vancouver Fire and Rescue Services spokesman.
Cheung stressed that the city recognizes and appreciates the sacrifices firefighters make, and that the issue was one of personal conduct.
"The firefighter did not follow instructions and conducted himself inappropriately," he said.
