History of the Maltese Cross
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 We hope to explain the origin of the maltese cross. Centuries ago, when a courageous band of crusaders known as the Knights of St. John fought the Saracens to win back the Holy Land, they encountered a new weapon unknown to European warriors - fire. When hundreds of comrades risked their lives to rescue others and extinguish fires, they became the first firefighters. Their heroic efforts were recognized by fellow crusaders, who awarded each a badge of honor - a cross to be worn on the battlefield to distinguish friend from foe. It is this cross that became The Maltese Cross, representing the fire - fighting ideals of saving lives.
Since the Knights of St. John lived on a small island in the Mediterranean Sea named Malta for nearly four centuries, the cross came to be known as The Maltese Cross. Those who wear it are willing to lay down their life to help others in need, just as the brave Knights of Malta did so many years ago.
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