- Scouts Cross
"Krzyż harcerski" (Polish for "Scouts Cross") is the
emblem of Polish Scouting, awarded to Polish Scouts, Senior Scouts and Rangers. It was first used by an underground Scouting organization inWarsaw in 1912. The initial design byKazimierz Lutosławski has not been modified substantially since. It is worn over the heart, two fingers over the left pocket.In November 1918 the Polish Ministry of War decreed that the "Krzyż Harcerski" was the only civilian honour that may be worn on military uniforms. The tradition continues to this day.
ymbols
The Cross was designed by the Catholic priest
Kazimierz Lutosławski , uncle of Polish composerWitold Lutosławski . The shape of theCross is a symbol of a hard way that should always be followed. It also bears resemblance toVirtuti Militari , the highest Polish military medal, a symbol of bravery and indomitability.The central point of the Cross is the
Fleur-de-lys , an ancient symbol of virtue and purity. It is used worldwide as a symbol of theScouting Movement (seeFleur-de-lis in Scouting ). The letters "ONC" on the wings of the emblem stand for "Ojczyzna, Nauka, Cnota" (Polish for "Country, Education, Virtue"). The middle wing with the letter N also symbolizes thecompass that should guide every Scout through his or her life. The fleur-de-lys on the Scouts Cross does not bear the letters "ONC", which have been replaced by two stars, emblematic of a Scout's wide-open eyes.The fleur-de-lys is surrounded by a circle or a ring, symbolizing both perfection and scout unity. The rays inside the ring signify the
Latin phrase, "per aspera ad astra" ("through hardships to the stars").The wreath around the centre of the Cross is composed of two parts. To the left there is a chain of
oak leaves which symbolise strength, courage, heroism and agility. To the right there is a chain of laurel leaves - symbol of victory. A Scout is to achieve victories over his own weaknesses rather than over an enemy. Thus the laurel leaves signify also the knowledge and proficiency. The tie between both chains is to remind every Scout to commit good deeds every day.The arms of the cross are filled with grains of sand. Their purpose is to symbolise both the multitude of Scouts on Earth and stones that are thrown on the road of a Scout by fate. The word "Czuwaj" (Polish for "Watch" , be alert, be prepared) is the motto and greeting of Polish Scouts.
ee also
*
Związek Harcerstwa Polskiego
*Fleur-de-lis in Scouting
*Virtuti Militari
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