Firefighter under fire for flag on helmet

NEWTON, Mass. -- A local firefighter is under fire for painting an American flag on his helmet.

Richard Busa, an Iraq war veteran, is refusing to get rid of the spray painted flag on his helmet, which is said to be against department rules.

However, many firefighters' helmets are adorned with stickers or other items, but Busa was told his flag was over the top.

"It's just flair," Busa said.

Busa was ordered to remove it.

"I feel strongly about it. It's something I really do not want to do," Busa said. "I don't want to take it off because every community we go to -- we go to Wellesley, we go to Waltham, Watertown, Needham, wherever we go -- and work with other firefighters, and they see my helmet, I have never had someone say something negative about it."

Jeremy Solomon, a spokesman for the City of Newton said, "Firefighter equipment is not personal property. It's the property of the City of Newton, and, as such, is not an appropriate forum for self expression."

Many firefighters do not believe it should be considered an issue.

"In the grand scheme of all the other priorities we have in the department, I'm a little surprised it has taken such a forefront," said Tom Lopez, the Union president.

Busa said he started wearing the stars and stripes on his helmet three years ago and he wants the department to just let it go.

The union president is advising Busa to stick with the orders, follow them and avoid any disciplinary action, but if it comes down to it, the union will back him up.

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