Modesto's Patch Logo History
The origin of the Modesto Fire Department patch dates back to 1983. After attending the National Fire
Academy in Emittsburg Maryland, Fire Engineer Steven Whitehead brought home the concept of a Department patch.
Approval was given in 1990 for Steve to design several possible examples. Input was received from
throughout the Organization and a final prototype was selected.
The Modesto Fire Department patch became official in
February of 1991. The patch consists of the Maltese
Cross, the universal insignia of the Fire Service,
interlaid with the year the Modesto Fire Department was
established and the tools of the trade. The center
of the Maltese cross is a replica of the City of Modesto
seal. The Maltese cross is flanked by the State of
California and American flags.
In keeping with Fire industry tradition, today's
patch represents the three founding organizations of the
newly formed Modesto Regional Fire Authority while
integrating important symbols and history of the old
patches.
The center graphic incorporates key elements of the
combined service areas:
- Urban
- Suburban
- Rural
- Frontier
- Includes the Modesto Arch and
prominent downtown buildings
Steve Whitehead lost his life in the "Line of Duty" fighting lung cancer in 1997. At the time of his passing, Steve was on the eligibility list for Fire Captain. He was posthumously promoted to this rank that same year. Modesto Firefighters are honored to wear this patch, not only representing the City, State, and Country
they serve, but representing the man who lost his life while protecting the citizens of our
area.
 Original Patch,1991 |
Today's Patch reflecting the newly formed
Modesto Regional Fire Authority |
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