City unveils San Marco street designation to honor Jacksonville firefighter who died on duty 56 years ago

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Jacksonville firefighter Walter W. Flowers was killed on Christmas Day in 1968 when he was thrown from a fire truck after it was struck by a train at an Atlantic Boulevard crossing.

Engine 13 was en route to a Southside fire at the time of the accident, and Flowers had been riding on the tailboard. Three other firefighters were injured in the accident.

A bill was recently introduced through the Jacksonville City Council for the “Fallen Firefighter Honorary Street Designation” in honor of his service.

Jacksonville Fire and Rescue Department Chief Powers, along with multiple city council members and Mr. Flowers’ family members were on hand Friday morning for the unveiling of the street designation and roadway markers.

One marker is located on the southeast corner of San Marco Blvd. and Balis Place and the second marker is located in the median on Atlantic Blvd. and Belote Place.