Maltese Cross

The symbol of the maltese cross appears throughout the fire service on stations, apparatus, department patches and union logos. This insignia has become synonomyous with firefighters. Although it may change slightly in shape or color depending on where you are, the basic image is the Cross Pattee-Nowy, otherwise known as the Maltese Cross. Through its history, the cross has come to represent the same fire service ideals of saving lives and extinguishing fires.

The earliest accounts of the maltese cross trace the symbol to the Knights of Saint John of Jerusalem. This charitable, non-military organization existed during the 11th and 12th centuries. The knights adopted a white or silver cross on a dark background as their symbol. The group also became known as the Knights of Hospitallers because of their charity toward the sick and poor in setting up hospices and hospitals.

Later they assisted the knights of the crusades through their goodwill. They also provided military assistance in an effort to win back the Holy Land. Eventually, the Knights of Saint John moved to the Island of Malta.

As the battles raged on, the knights' need for an identifiable emblem became crucial. Extensive armor covered their bodies and faces, making it impossible for the knights to distinguish friend from foe during battle. The Knights of Saint John chose the Cross of Calvary as their symbol since they fought their battles for a holy cause.

As time went on, the name of their cross evolved. Eventually, it became the Maltese Cross, marking the homeland (the island of Malta) of those who wore it (the Knights of Saint John).

During the Crusades, fire became a horrifically powerful weapon. Enemies resorted to throwing glass bombs containing naphtha. They also sailed their ships containing naptha, rosin, sulfur, and flaming oil into the the knights' boats. Many crusaders became firefighters out of necessity. Knights were called to do heroic deeds, rescue fellow knights and extinguish fires.

The Knights of Saint John earned a reputation for performing such duties and helping the burned victims. The symbol they wore, the maltese cross, became symbolic of those who come to aid victims of fire. Therefore today, the maltese cross represents the principles of charity, loyalty, chivalry, gallantry, generosities to friend and foe, protection of the weak, and dexterity in service.

Historical research and facts courtesy of Delmarva Fire Page