George Cross anniversary
● Attends George Cross commemoration
The 75th anniversary of the awarding of the George Cross to Malta was commemorated with a colourful ceremony in Valletta, yesterday evening. The event included a spectacular display projected on the façade of the President’s palace, music and fireworks. Addressing the event, the Prince of Wales spoke about his deep and personal connection with Malta.
Prince Charles yesterday spoke of the “deep and personal connection” his family holds for Malta. He was addressing the 75th anniversary of the awarding of the George Cross to Malta, by his grandfather, King George VI, in 1942. The medal is the highest UK civilian award for bravery and was awarded to the Maltese people for the bravery shown during World War II.
“By 1942, after almost two years of intense aerial bombardment, Malta was on the brink of surrender. Indeed between March and April of that year more bombs were dropped on Malta than on London during the entirety of the blitz. With strength of spirit, Malta’s valiant citizens held firm.”
He bravely quoted a Maltese poem by one of the island’s foremost author and poet Oliver Friggieri in the native language, about how each stone on the island tells a tale of valiant people.
Prince Charles is the head of the Victoria Cross and George Cross Association, which has led him to hear countless tales of bravery and “defiance of those who would try to break their will.”
He said that Malta’s tale stands out among the many tales heard over the years. “It is a blessing that tonight we are surrounded by veterans and civilians who lived through the troubling invasion. Without their courage and determination Malta would not have become the thriving influence that it is today.”
The Prince of Wales spent time in Malta as a child and then in the 1960s and 70s. He said that he felt grateful to be on the island and celebrate this momentous achievement.
“It serves as a symbol of the profound gratitude in the UK, and across the commonwealth, of the sacrifice Malta made and the enduring relationship with the people of these ancient isles.”
Prime Minister Joseph Muscat said that the George Cross has become a symbol synonymous with bravery and pride.
“Our forefathers were recognised for pushing forward, at time when it seemed impossible. They persisted and persevered even when giving up would have been much easier. What they believed in then is not very difficult from what we believe in now. We commemorate their ability to endure the conflict in the face of adversity.”
Muscat said that while times do change, “we should always be proud to hand down to the next generation the most valuable lesson. For Malta, one of these invaluable gifts is the pride of our nation. Our ethos to work hard for our family and country, and to give back when we can.”
Earlier, the Prince of Wales met the Prime Minister and his family at the Auberge de Castille. He later visited St Paul’s Pro-Cathedral, whose restoration he is supporting.
Today he will deliver a keynote speech at the Our Ocean conference and visit the Hagar Qim temples.