Maltese Cross Meaning In The Fire Service

The cross represents the fire service ideals of saving lives and extinguishing fires.

Maltese cross meaning in the fire service. It carries the same eight point structure as the maltese cross but has rounded edges. It s universally agreed upon that the four arms of the cross are indicative of the cardinal virtues. The maltese cross is the very familiar red center circle with four shapes emanating from the center. John in 1126 stylistically owes its origins to the crosses used in the crusades when it was identified as the symbol of the christian warrior.

Many people ask us what the connection is between the fire service and that maltese cross. Several municipalities in spain also use the eight pointed cross on their. This cross is almost universally used as the symbol of firefighters around the world. It can be seen on uniform hats and on long service and outstanding service badges.

So in this article we re going to do a deep dive into what the cross is what it symbolizes and how it s actually used. Prudence temperance justice and fortitude. Florian cross oftentimes mistakenly called the maltese cross. Symbolism of the firefighter emblem maltese florian cross the firefighter cross is a symbol of honor valor courage and integrity.

The maltese cross formally adopted by the knights hospitallers of st. Florian cross is oftentimes confused for the maltese cross. Two dutch towns ermelo and montfoort use the eight pointed cross on their flags and the former on its coat of arms also. The insignia of the fire service is the cross pattee nowy otherwise known as the maltese cross.

The cross known as the fire service star is also used by country fire authority in victoria as an official symbol. The maltese cross like we ve established symbolized a special breed of men and women that take the motto for the service of mankind as a way of life. Often confused with the maltese cross the florian cross is what a majority of fire departments use. Its eight points denote the eight obligations or aspirations of the knights namely to live in truth have faith repent one s sins give proof of humility love justice be merciful be sincere and whole hearted and to endure persecution.