“Firefighters wear the Maltese Cross to symbolize their willingness to risk their lives to save others” Local 1259 IAFF
The cross, which is considered sacred, represents the principles of charity, loyalty, chivalry, gallantry, generosity to friend and foe, protection of the weak and dexterity in service.
Other sources label the eight principles as:
- Loyalty
- Piety
- Frankness
- Bravery
- Glory and honour
- Contempt of death
- Helpfulness towards the poor and the sick
- Respect for the church
![securedownload[2]](http://firefighterblog.com/files/2010/04/securedownload2.jpg "securedownload[2]")
