This great looking firefighter house flag features a Maltese cross logo against a jet black background that makes the red and gold fire and rescue emblem stand out beautifully. All lettering reads correctly from both sides.
Two Group Dye Sublimated House Flags are printed on 2 ply blocker polyester fabric which allows both sides to be printed and read correctly from each side. It is a durable material that has the feel of suede with a slight amount of elasticity. Blocker fabric is more durable and fade resistant than most other printed polyester flags and the dye sublimation process produces beautiful color resolution and incredible detail. Fits any standard 5′ pole. Flag size 28″ x 40″.
Meaning and History of the Maltese Cross
The Maltese Cross or Cross of Malta dates back over one thousand years, to the Crusaders in the Middle East. The Knights of St. John were the world’s first great brotherhood of warriors sworn to chivalry. The Knights of St. John included men of all walks of life, from noblemen and priests, to artisans and laborers. Regardless of their differences, they were bound together by a pledge to one another of courage and compassion. Together they battled against oppressive forces. They brought their crusades long distances away from home, crossing deserts and oceans to the Holy Lands of Malta, Cyprus and Rhodes. All the while they administered to the sick, and needy. The Crusaders adopted the eight pointed Cross of Malta as their emblem because its eight points represented the eight virtues prescribed in the Sermon on the Mount: Blessed are the poor in spirit, the meek, the pure, the merciful, the peacemakers, they that mourn, they that seek righteousness, and they who are persecuted for righteousness sake. Although the Cross of Malta had Christian origins, the Knights of St. John made it their battle standard representing liberation for all men, women and children who suffered oppression. When the Knights of St. John engaged the Saracens in battle for possession of the Holy Land, they encountered a new weapon unknown to Europeans up until that time. Although simple, a horrible method of warfare which inflicted terrible pain and death upon the Saracens’ enemies. This weapon was fire. As the knights advanced, they were struck by glass containers of naphtha. Once saturated with this highly flammable liquid, the Saracens threw flaming torches into their ranks. Hundreds of the knights were burned alive while others put their own lives at risk to save their brothers. These men became the first of a long line of brave firemen. The courageous efforts of these early firefighters were recognized by being awarded a badge of honor, which was a Cross similar to what modern day firemen wear. Because the Knights of St. John lived for nearly 4 centuries on the small island in the Mediterranean named Malta, the cross became known as the Maltese Cross.
Today, the universal symbol of firefighters is the Maltese Cross. It symbolizes protection and is a badge of honor. Just as the crusaders risked their lives and many times made the ultimate sacrifice for their fellow man so many years ago, today’s firefighters exhibit that same spirit of courage and sacrifice.
#firefighter #ThankYouFirstResponder
*Flagpole not included.
