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Long before wireless radio communications,
fire officers issued fireground commands through speaking
trumpets. These instruments magnified and directed the officer’s
voice. Often referred to as "bugles," crossed trumpets
on a badge or helmet shield traditionally signified the rank
of an officer. For example, two small crossed bugles are used
on the badge and helmet shield of a Battalion Chief. Five
to seven crossed bugles usually indicate that the wearer is
the chief of the department. We have several well-preserved
examples in our collection.
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