The traditions of the fire service are often reflected in the symbols firefighters carry with them. From helmet shields and station artwork to tattoos that mark years of service, these symbols represent pride in the job and respect for the generations who came before. 

The 2026 Bullard Tough patch draws from that same tradition. 

This design was created by Charles Iglinski, a lieutenant with the Chicago Fire Department who has spent more than two decades in the fire service while also building a career as a professional tattoo artist. 

Iglinski joined the Chicago Fire Department on February 2, 1998, and is currently assigned to Tower Ladder 24. He’ll soon transfer to Truck 27 in the Roseland neighborhood on Chicago’s South Side. Prior to joining the department, he served in the United States Marine Corps from 1989 to 1992. 

His artistic background runs just as deep as his service career. Iglinski began tattooing in 1989 and developed experience across several artistic disciplines including sign painting, pinstriping, airbrushing, oil painting, and latex work. In 2002, he opened Firehouse Tattoos, where he continues to work today as owner and artist. 

For many firefighters, tattoos and artwork connected to the job carry personal meaning. Company numbers, helmets, Maltese crosses, and memorial pieces often represent milestones, brotherhood, and the shared experiences of the fire service. 

At the center of the design is a traditional fire helmet held by an American eagle set against a weathered American flag. The imagery represents strength, service, and the responsibility firefighters carry each time they respond to a call. 

The banner across the top reads Bullard Tough, while the bottom carries the words Duty. Pride. Honor. Three values that resonate strongly within the fire service. 

“The fire service has a strong tradition of pride and brotherhood. I wanted the design to reflect that history and the values firefighters carry with them every day.” 

Speaking about the design, Iglinski explained: 

The patch also serves as a nod to America’s 250th anniversary, recognizing the long history of service firefighters have provided to their communities. For generations, departments across the country have shared a common commitment to protecting the people they serve. 

When Bullard set out to create a patch honoring that tradition, working with a firefighter-artist who understands the culture of the job brought an authentic perspective to the design. 

The result: a piece of artwork that reflects both the heritage of the fire service and the pride firefighters take in their profession. 

Duty. Pride. Honor.