A new FDNY logo commemorating the department’s 150 year anniversary features the same Statue of Liberty design used by the New York Rangers.
The patch, which was unveiled in a ceremony in December, was designed by Richard I. Miranda, a firefighter of 17 years. DNAinfo reports:
According to sources, Miranda told FDNY officials that several years ago he redecorated his 12-year-old son’s room with logos of his child’s favorite teams, including the Rangers.
When Miranda, who has been a firefighter for 17 years, began to design the new logo for the patch he wanted to include an image of Lady Liberty and used the Rangers logo he had saved on his computer, which fit perfectly, the source added.
The design, which also features the World Trade Center’s annual 9/11 art installation Tribute in Light, was chosen out of 30 others. An FDNY spokesman told DNAinfo that while the design is taken from the Rangers, it represents an “enduring symbol of freedom and New York City.” Officials for Madison Square Garden are reportedly aware of the design and do not feel violated by the use of the logo.
The patch will be released as a limited edition collector’s item starting February 7. It will not be worn by the firefighters; they will resume wearing the department’s official logo. Proceeds from the patch sales will go to the FDNY Foundation.
