THE CONSPICUOUS CROSS

The Conspicuous Cross

Recently I have noticed a 'surge' in the presence of these so-called Pattee Crosses, Celtic, also known as 'The Iron Cross'; They resemble 'The Templar Cross'. Well, I first noticed them recently on a 'West Coast Choppers' Bumper Sticker. Ever since then, I have become aware of how popular these crosses have become.

I first wondered if it were just a fashion statement, like surfing or skateboard fashion clothing? Something that distinguishes a person's inclination or hobby. I thought, maybe it's like an identifying sign amongst a segment of society?

+

When I was young I remember going to the novelty stores and looking at knives and gadgets. I saw a few crosses that reminded me of the German 'Iron Cross' which were worn by some of the Nazi officers. I also discovered that in those stores there were also German WWII Helmets. There were cigarette lighters that resembled the German Lugger Automatic Pistols. It was like the whole store was full of Nazi WWII memorabilia, that bikers, and other people liked. I would just go there to look at the 'Blades', and kill time while visiting the down-town area.

+

Fast forward to the Twenty-First Century: These crosses are like 'white on rice'. I knew that back when I was younger, some juvenile deliquents, and mortor cycle Gang members, sported German trinkets. As if those emblems made them tough or hip? But now, it's as if these 'Crosses' have become an identifier of certain racial exclusive individuals. Since I only see the skin headed guys use them. I pondered on what these people considered themselves? Were they a gang? A Secret Society? Then, it occured to me that these are 'Crosses' that Aryans (as they call themselves) display! I've seen people with these crosses tatooed on their bodies. It must be the latest fashion statement? It's like saying: "Look at me, I'm white and proud"! These are used by "Christian Identity' members, and 'Aryan Heritage' sympathizer. How quaint? I knew there was something about those Crosses! These guys aren't surfers! Not what surfers used to be, or the ones I knew.

A more benign Cross?

Then there's the popular cross

The one

That first caught my attention:

It's commercial, it's family oriented, and everyone has seen them. It's like the Harley Davidson Motor Cycles, all you need is a bandana, leather vest, and your're one of the guys. Like Harley Davidson and The Marlboro Man.

Things are not what they seem, not then, not now!