Two legislators inducted into Order of the Maltese

April 5, 2023

On Wednesday April 5, 2023, The South Carolina State Firefighters’ Association awarded House of Representatives Speaker Murrell Smith and Senator Harvey Peeler with induction into the Society of the Maltese Cross.

A symbol associated with fire for over 500 years, the Maltese cross brings to mind in every firefighter the traditions and values sacred and true to service to our fellow man. Firefighters across South Carolina, and the world, proudly display the Maltese cross on their uniforms to remember and signify servants of similar purpose. 

The points of the Maltese cross stand for gallantry, sympathy, tact, observation, explicitness, dexterity, loyalty, and perseverance. The establishment of the Order of the Maltese cross by the South Carolina State Firefighters’ Association recognizes those individuals of the South Carolina General Assembly that share in those values and have supported South Carolina firefighters in meeting those goals. 

“Speaker Smith and Senator Peeler’s service to their districts and to South Carolina shows a long-standing tradition and their commitment to helping the state’s fire service in Columbia is proven each year,” offered Josh Holzheimer, president of the South Carolina State Firefighters’ Association.

Each year, the Firefighters’ Association inducts a class of Legislators that represent what is best in the qualities of courage, compassion, and loyalty to duty. The Society of the Maltese Cross is a fellowship of service and is a commemoration of thanks on behalf of the men and women of the fire service of the great state of South Carolina.