Floor SpeechCeremonial2026-08-24

HONORING FIRE CHIEF LATOSHA CLEMONS

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On 2026-08-24, Representative Lois Frankel (D-FL-22) delivered a floor speech titled "HONORING FIRE CHIEF LATOSHA CLEMONS" in the House.

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HONORING FIRE CHIEF LATOSHA CLEMONS

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 135 (Monday, August 24, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 135 (Monday, August 24, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E803] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING FIRE CHIEF LATOSHA CLEMONS ______ HON. LOIS FRANKEL of florida in the house of representatives Monday, August 24, 2026 Ms. LOIS FRANKEL of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Fire Chief Latosha Clemons and celebrate a remarkable career dedicated to public service. For 24 years, Chief Clemons served the Boynton Beach Fire Rescue Department, where she broke barriers as the first African American woman to join its ranks. Throughout her career, she has exemplified courage, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to protecting the health, safety, and well-being of her community. Her record of service reflects the very best of public leadership. Recruited by then-Fire Chief Floyd Jordan, Boynton Beach's first African American Fire Chief, Clemons began her career as a probationary firefighter and quickly established herself as a leader. Through hard work, determination, and exceptional performance, she rose through every level of the department--serving as Paramedic, Operator Engineer, Lieutenant, Captain, and Battalion Chief before taking on senior leadership roles as both Deputy Chief of Administration and Deputy Chief of Operations. At every stage, Chief Clemons earned recognition as one of the department's top candidates for advancement. In a profession where women make up only about 9 percent of firefighters nationwide--and Black women represent an even smaller share--Chief Clemons has opened doors for others while demonstrating what is possible through perseverance, skill, and leadership. She continues to serve as a powerful role model for women and girls considering careers in public service and emergency response. In addition to her extensive work in the field, Chief Clemons volunteers her time by hosting a free camp for girls to get them interested in the fire service. Her commitment to service reaches beyond the firehouse. As Interim City Manager for the City of Forest Park, Chief Clemens also oversees the daily operations of municipal government and brings the same steady leadership, sound judgment, and dedication to excellence that defines her firefighting career. The confidence placed in her reflects both the respect she commands and the breadth of experience she brings to every challenge. Today, I am proud to recognize Chief Clemons for her extraordinary contributions, her groundbreaking achievements, and her enduring commitment to serving others. Her leadership has strengthened every community she has touched, and her example will continue to inspire future generations of public servants. ____________________

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HONORING FIRE CHIEF LATOSHA CLEMONS Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 135 (Monday, August 24, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 135 (Monday, August 24, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E803] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING FIRE CHIEF LATOSHA CLEMONS ______ HON. LOIS FRANKEL of florida in the house of representatives Monday, August 24, 2026 Ms. LOIS FRANKEL of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Fire Chief Latosha Clemons and celebrate a remarkable career dedicated to public service. For 24 years, Chief Clemons served the Boynton Beach Fire Rescue Department, where she broke barriers as the first African American woman to join its ranks. Throughout her career, she has exemplified courage, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to protecting the health, safety, and well-being of her community. Her record of service reflects the very best of public leadership. Recruited by then-Fire Chief Floyd Jordan, Boynton Beach's first African American Fire Chief, Clemons began her career as a probationary firefighter and quickly established herself as a leader. Through hard work, determination, and exceptional performance, she rose through every level of the department--serving as Paramedic, Operator Engineer, Lieutenant, Captain, and Battalion Chief before taking on senior leadership roles as both Deputy Chief of Administration and Deputy Chief of Operations. At every stage, Chief Clemons earned recognition as one of the department's top candidates for advancement. In a profession where women make up only about 9 percent of firefighters nationwide--and Black women represent an even smaller share--Chief Clemons has opened doors for others while demonstrating what is possible through perseverance, skill, and leadership. She continues to serve as a powerful role model for women and girls considering careers in public service and emergency response. In addition to her extensive work in the field, Chief Clemons volunteers her time by hosting a free camp for girls to get them interested in the fire service. Her commitment to service reaches beyond the firehouse. As Interim City Manager for the City of Forest Park, Chief Clemens also oversees the daily operations of municipal government and brings the same steady leadership, sound judgment, and dedication to excellence that defines her firefighting career. The confidence placed in her reflects both the respect she commands and the breadth of experience she brings to every challenge. Today, I am proud to recognize Chief Clemons for her extraordinary contributions, her groundbreaking achievements, and her enduring commitment to serving others. Her leadership has strengthened every community she has touched, and her example will continue to inspire future generations of public servants. ____________________