THE HERO ISLAND
After months of bombardment by Italian and German air forces, Malta was awarded the George Cross in recognition of the population’s resolve and bravery. In a handwritten address to the island’s governor on 15 April, King George VI declared: “To honour her brave people I award the George Cross to the Island Fortress of Malta to bear witness to a heroism and devotion that will long be famous in history.” The cross was later incorporated into the Maltese flag.