JEFFERSON CITY, Mo — For his work supporting the fire fighter community, Rep. Noel Torpey received a honorary axe yesterday.
The axe was presented to Torpey on behalf of the IAFF local 42 and The Missouri State Council of Fire Fighters.
Upon seeing the gold plated axe, Torpey said, “This is really fantastic. I always have your back.”
After being presented the axe on behalf of the firefighters, Torpey said, “I can’t think of a greater honor since being elected. I am humbled and will continue to fight for public safety and the people who keep my family and others safe.”
While being presented the axe, Torpey was commended for his efforts by Sherwood Smith of the Missouri State Council of Firefighters, “We’d like to thank you for your attitude, your efforts, and your hard work. This isn’t from just the Local 42, but from all over the state.”
Tony Kelley, President of the Missouri State Council of Fire Fighters, also spoke on Torpey’s work with Missouri firefighters, “He’s been a friend of fire fighters since joining the legislature, we’re happy to give a token of appreciation.”
Rep. Torpey last year championed the First Responder Political Freedom act, which made it possible for off duty first responders to support a political party or candidate. The act also made it possible for the first time for first responders to place political yard signs on their own lawn.
Torpey did not hide his admiration for firefighters following the presentation.
“I’m here in Jefferson City night after night and there is no greater reassurance than knowing that Local 42 is there for my family,” Torpey said. “You know people are running out of the building but they (fire fighters) are the ones who run into the building.”
Torpey now joins the likes of Sen. Eric Schmitt, Sen. Tom Dempsey, Sen. Mike Kehoe, Rep. Jeff Roorda, Rep. Dave Hinson, Rep. Ryan Silvey, Sen. Ryan McKenna as the most recent addition of Missouri legislators to receive the honorary axe.
