MEMORANDUM: Flags at Half-Staff in Honor of Hector Cruz

On Wednesday, August 19, 2026, Hector Cruz of the Polk County Fire Rescue tragically passed away in the line of duty. He lived a life of service as a soldier in the U.S. Army and as a correctional officer in both New York and in Florida. He will be remembered for his courage, bravery, and dedication to protecting his community. Our prayers go out to his family. 

To honor the memory of Hector Cruz and his service to our state, I hereby direct the flags of the United States and the State of Florida to be flown at half-staff at the Polk County Fire Rescue Headquarters, the Polk County Courthouse, and the City Hall of Winter Haven from sunrise to sunset on Wednesday, August 26, 2026.