AMERICAN MARKINGS THEMEWORKS: The Cross as Monument -- The rationale for the Registry's including this monument in this category is documented in an Empire State Plaza promotional brochure. It notes that "The plaza's charcoal and red brick pavers form a Maltese Cross, a firefighter's symbol of protection and badge of honor. This insignia originates from the Knights of St. John, a band of crusaders who risked their lives to save their brothers-in-arms from a new weapon introduced in the war for possession of the holy land-fire-thus becoming the first firefighters."