December 2008, at the Annual AFD Recognition program local graphic designer and Pastor Roy Ice approached Chief Avery Browne and Lieutenant J.R. Rogers inquiring how he could help the fire department.  He looked at the patch affixed to department members’ uniforms and decided that it was time to redo it and announced that he was up to the challenge.

Over the next year Ice and Lt. Rogers worked hand-in-hand with oversight from Chief Browne to create the final version of the new Angwin Fire Department patch. Other department members such as Captain Levi Gore reviewed drafts along the way to help give input and a “4th eye” to the project.   The patch was revealed to the public at the 2009 Fire Recognition Program almost one year from its inception.   The creators and department members are very excited about the new patch and its meaning.  They can’t wait for the world to see and understand what we do here in Angwin.

The patch will go into effect January 1, 2010 as the new department logo.

Patch Development

The new AFD patch was developed around the Angwin Fire Department Mission Statement and Philosophy that we in at AFD follow and abide by.  By using this as a guide, Ice and Lt. Rogers were able to craft the patch with key features that represent Angwin.

The Flame – The torch represents Angwin and the Angwin Fire Department desire to be recognized as leaders in fire prevention and protection.  Programs and ideas developed by AFD are being used in the county, state and the US.  It shows that we are a light leading the way for others to follow and to look up to.

The Torch Handle – The handle is an elegant reminder that we are set deep in tradition.  Every member of the fire department, past and present, has and is reaching up to hold the torch and move it forward to lead and pave the way for others.

The Mountain – The Mountain denotes where we live, overlooking the beautiful Napa Valley, and the vineyards below. 

The Hydrant and Axes – The fire hydrant and the ax is the core of the fire service.  With water we extinguish fires and with the ax we are able to gain access to rescue trapped individuals.  It is with these tools that we provide consistent, cost effective service and protect Angwin.

Fire & Rescue – These two words define our mission.  To protect the communities we serve from the threat and danger of fire and to rescue those around us from the harm and emergencies they endure.

These symbols are set into a Maltese Cross commonly known as the St. Florian’s Cross.  This is a cross widely used by the fire service for its meaning.  Its design is said to symbolize the eight points of courage: loyalty, piety, bravery, frankness, glory and honor, no fear of death, compassion toward the sick and poor and respect for the church.  It is these points that are embodied in each of our firefighters.

We are very proud of our new patch and symbol of the Angwin Fire Department.  We are indebted to Roy Ice for lending his design abilities and leading the way in the effort to gather community involvement in our volunteer fire department.