Bagpipe Tradition At Fire Department Funerals

The tradition of bagpipes played at fire department and police department funerals in the united states goes back over one hundred fifty years. When the Irish and Scottish immigrated to this country, they brought many of their traditions with them. One of these was the bagpipe, often played at Celtic weddings, funerals and ceil is (dances).

It wasn't until the great potato famine and massive Irish immigration to the East Coast of the United States that the tradition of the pipes really took hold in the fire department. In the 1800's, Irish immigrants faced massive discrimination. Factories and shops had signs reading "NINA"-No Irish Need Apply. The only jobs they could get were the ones no one else wanted - jobs that were dirty, dangerous, or both - firefighters and police officers. It was not an uncommon event to have several firefighters killed at a working fire. The Irish firefighters' funerals were typical of all Irish funerals - the pipes were played. It was somehow okay for a hardened firefighter to cry at the sound of pipes when his dignity would not let him weep for a fallen comrade.

Those who have been to funerals when bagpipes play know how haunting and mournful the sound of the pipes can be. Before too long, families and friends of non-Irish firefighters began asking for the piper to play for these fallen heroes. The pipes add a special air and dignity to the solemn occasion.

Associated with cities such as Boston, New York, Philadelphia, and Chicago, pipe bands representing both fire and police often have more than 60 uniformed playing members. They are also traditionally known as Emerald Societies after Ireland - the Emerald Isle. Many bands wear traditional Scottish dress while others wear the simpler Irish uniform. All members wear the kilt and tunic, whether it is a Scottish clan tartan or Irish single color kilt.

The Meanings Behind the OCFA Symbol

The Orange County Fire Pipe Band Crest-Badge consists of several heraldic symbols. Each of these symbols, as well as their colors, carries their own special historic meaning.

Their representations are as follows:

Crest: A traditional Maltese Cross represents the Orange County Fire Authority. This Cross is a fireman's badge of honor, signifying that he works in courage.

Tartan: The Atholl District tartan was selected as the fabric for the Pipe Bands kilts. It was chosen for its dignified use of green, blue and red colors and for its subtle pattern. 

Strap and Buckle: This is a mark of allegiance, usually to the Chief of the Clan or owner (Orange County Fire Authority).

Motto: "Onair Do Na Marbh" translates from ancient Gaelic to "Honor the Fallen." A reminder of the many fallen and injured firefighters who have paid the ultimate price protecting others.

Charge: The Rampant Lion is a symbol of strength, courage and generosity. Our lion is also incensed, that is, with fire issuing from its mouth. 

Battle-Axe: Execution of military (Fire Service) duty.

Crest Wreath: Two main colors, green and blue, twisted to appear in six alternate folds of soft material. The Crest- Wreath is part of the Achievement of Arms (Coat of Arms). 

Blue color: Truth and loyalty. All lettering is done in blue.

Green color: Hope, Joy, and loyalty in love.

Red color: Warrior, strength and magnanimity (loftiness of spirit enabling one to bear trouble calmly, to disdain meanness and revenge, and to make sacrifices to worthy ends).