our patch and meaning

Often when we are out in our patches we get asked “What does igy6 mean?”. We haven’t come out about the meaning behind this name and patch design. IGY6 is not just an acronym for “I got your six”. It is a saying that comes from military training to always have your buddies back. In the military “six” means back. This saying is a pledge among veterans, military, and first responders, a commitment to have and watch out for each other, especially in times of need. 

Our patch design incorporates a shield, the valknut in the center, 7 spikes at the top of the shield, and 12 stars surrounding the valknut within the shield.
The shield represents not only law enforcement but also protection, stability, and solidity.
The valknut is a symbol consisting of three interlocked triangles. The knot of these interlocking triangles represents the knot of those in battle as well as “in brotherhood, we find support”.
Freedom, independence, and liberty are all words that bring the American people together as one. The Statue of Liberty’s crown bears seven spikes. Seven spikes were placed at the top of the shield to incorporate our freedom and liberty.
Each of the 12 stars represents the 12 founders of the IGY6 Brotherhood. Each of these men has been here from the start, through thick and thin, and has stuck together for this amazing journey.
Pedro was the brains behind this patch and we could not be more proud and honored to wear this patch. 

The women’s patch is relatively the same design but to differentiate the women’s sisterhood patch from the brotherhood we decided to incorporate two roses in the shield above the valknut. You may wonder why there are only 4 stars at the bottom of the shield. No, the stars do not represent the first 4 women. We decided to keep the stars on the design, it represents and honors the first 4 original members. 

Every one of these people brings something different to the table but what we all have in common is truly representing the meaning of having each other’s back. IGY6 is more than just an acronym for a military and first responder meaning. We will continue to be a representation of brotherhood and sisterhood for our community.