The insignia of the Fire Service is the Cross Pattee- Nowy, otherwise known as the Maltese Cross. The Fire Service borrows the emblem of the cross from the Knights of St. John of Jerusalem, a charitable, non- military organization that existed during the 11th and 12th centuries. A white or silver cross on dark background was adopted by these Knights or Hospitallers, as they were known because of their charity toward the sick and poor setting up hospices and hospitals. The Knights of St. John moved to the Island of Malta, the island for which the Maltese Cross was named.
Because of the extensive armor which covered their entire bodies and faces, the knights were unable to distinguish friend from foe in battle. They chose the cross of Calvary as their symbol since they fought their battles for a holy cause. The cross was later called the "Maltese Cross" and represented the principles of charity, loyalty, chivalry, gailantry, generosity to friend and foe, protection of the weak, and dexerity in service. During the crusades many knights became firefighters out of necessity. Their enemies had resorted to throwing glass bombs containing naptha , rosin, sulphur, and flaming oil into the vessels of the knights. Many knights were called to preform heroic deeds by rescuing fellow knights and extinguishing fires. In acknowledgment of these feats, the cross worn by these knights was decorated and inscribed. This was considered a most honorable acclaim.