What is a Maltese Cross medal?
The Maltese cross is a cross symbol, consisting of four “V” or arrowhead shaped concave quadrilaterals converging at a central vertex at right angles, two tips pointing outward symmetrically. It is a heraldic cross variant which developed from earlier forms of eight-pointed crosses in the 16th century.
What does a Maltese cross symbolize?
The Maltese Cross is your symbol of protection. It means that the firefighter who wears this cross is willing to lay down his/her life for you, just as Crusaders sacrificed their lives for their fellow man so may years ago.
Can the people of Malta wear the George Cross?
This assault again failed. On 15 April 1942 King George VI awarded the George Cross to the people of Malta in appreciation of their heroism. The George Cross was awarded during the worst period for the Allies during the Second World War, as the Axis-force clearly appeared to have the upper hand.
Who awarded Malta the George Cross?
King George VI
On 15 April 1942, King George VI awarded the people of Malta the George Cross in recognition of their continuing and heroic struggle against repeated and continuous attacks during World War 2.
Who uses the Maltese cross?
the Knights of Malta
The Maltese cross is a symbol that is most commonly associated with the Knights of Malta (also known as the Knights Hospitallers), who ruled the Maltese islands between 1530 and 1798.
Is the Maltese cross Catholic?
One of the clearest and most lasting legacies of the Knights of Malta however, branded across nearly every souvenir in the country, is the Maltese cross. As the cross was a Catholic symbol adopted and worn by the Knights, many similar crosses can actually be found on flags, coats of arms, and other logos.
What religion is the Maltese cross?
As the cross was a Catholic symbol adopted and worn by the Knights, many similar crosses can actually be found on flags, coats of arms, and other logos. However, it will always be most closely associated with these islands in the mediterranean and their story.
Was Malta awarded the Victoria Cross?
Malta is the first British Commonwealth country to receive the bravery award – second only in ranking to the Victoria Cross – which is normally only awarded to individuals.
Do you salute the Victoria Cross?
It is not statutory for “all ranks to salute a bearer of the Victoria Cross”: There is no official requirement that appears in the official warrant of the VC, nor in Queen’s Regulations and Orders, but tradition dictates that this occurs and, consequently, senior officers will salute a private awarded a VC or GC.
Is the George Medal the same as the George Cross?
The George Medal, instituted at the same time as the George Cross, is analogous to it but is awarded for services not quite so outstanding as those which merit the George Cross. Recipients of this medal can add G.M. after their names.
Why did Malta get George Cross?
The George Cross was awarded to Malta by King George VI to “bear witness to the heroism and devotion of its people” during the great siege the islands suffered during the beginning of WWII.
What is the fire fighter symbol?
the Maltese Cross
History of the Maltese Cross The Maltese cross is known around the world as a symbol of the fire service. It is often seen painted on fire trucks, on the clothing of firefighters, depicted on firefighters badges, and is quite often the chosen design of firefighter tattoos.