Thin Red Lines & Blue Lines: The Meaning and Paying Tribute
The history of the meaning of the thin red line dates clear back to the mid-1850s and the Crimean War. According to Wikipedia, the term first came to use when a British army held off Russian forces at the Battle of Balaclava. They were noted as being a strong, thin, red line of soldiers. The first recorded mention of the thin BLUE line appears in 1911 in a poem penned by Nels Andreson, referencing the US Army.
What began as a military term has transitioned to those working in police and fire civil service. While it's unknown when or why the etymology of the phrase transitioned from military to civil servants, today this singular line of a blue or red line against a field of black is associated with pride, brotherhood, and support.
With blue representing police and red representing fire, the meaning of the thin blue line is a symbolic show of the division between order and anarchy. It’s a line that these civil servants pride themselves on upholding. In addition, this symbol of is often displayed as the ultimate form of respect and tribute to those who have lost their lives in the act of civil service and protection to those they serve.
QALO is proud to support and stand by those who risk their lives in the service and protection of their communities. That’s why we’re proud to offer our Thin Line Collection. Offering a thin blue line ring, a thin red line ring, and even a thin white line ring, QALO offers unique options for men and women working in police, fire, and emergency medical services.
In addition to showing pride and support, these rings are designed to be practical and safe for those who wear them. Offering medical grade silicone in varying thicknesses, these rings are breathable, flexible, and hypoallergenic. With the ability to withstand close to 20 pounds of pressure before breaking away, these rings keep your fingers safe so that you can focus on keeping others safe.
In addition to members of the police, fire, and emergency medical services, these rings make great gifts for those who support the men and women who fill these important positions.