After reflecting on Jesus on the Cross yesterday, today I share a reflection on another cross, one that our country Malta received 80 years ago. This was a medal given to the Maltese people fort heir bravery during the relentless bombing they received during World War II. It is known as the George Cross, which eventually was incorporated in the Maltese national flag. These are the words written by King George VI of Great Britain, 80 years ago yesterday: ‘To honor 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.’
No less than 3,340 air-raids were given up to August 1944, during which, no less than a total of 1,468 civilians were killed and a further 3,720 injured. It was estimated that 17,000 tons of bombs were dropped on Malta, which became on of the heaviest bombed places in the world. The incessant bombing resulted in 30,000 buildings destroyed or damaged, including many private residences, churches, clubs, hotels, centuries-old auberges as well as the major Royal Opera House which was hit on April 7, 1942. About 2,000 underground shelters had to be dug up for people to hide from the falling bombs. April 1942 happened to be the worst month as 6,7027 tons of bombs were dropped, resulting in the deaths of 339 civilians and 208 servicemen in just one month, apart from the widespread damage.
While the award was announced on 15th April 1942, it would not be presented to the Maltese until the 13th September of that year due to the constant bombing during the summer months.
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