For their bravery during the war, King Geoge VI awarded Malta the George Cross. It was the only time that such an honour went to a Nation - The Island of Malta The only award of the George Cross which was not published in the London Gazette. The award was made by King George VI to the Governor of Malta by letter dated 15 April 1942:

"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." (Signed) George R.I. April 15th, 1942

The citation read by President Roosevelt when he visited Malta in December 1943 read: "In the name of the USA I salute the Island of Malta, its people and its defenders, who, in the cause of freedom and justice and decency throughout the world, have rendered valorous service far above and beyond the call of duty. Under repeated fire from the skies Malta stood alone and unafraid in the centre of the sea, one tiny, bright flame in the darkness - a beacon of hope in the clearer days when which have come. Malta's bright story of human fortitude and courage will be read by posterity with wonder and gratitude through all the ages. What was done in this island maintains all the highest traditions of gallant men and women who from the beginning of time have lived and died to preserve the civilisation for all mankind." (Signed) Franklin D. Roosevelt, 7 December 1943.

The Author

Four of my favourite books about Malta are written by Charles Fiott. They give a nostalgic quick look at the Villages and Towns of Malta and Gozo. These books are sure to be enjoyed by visitors to Malta and also by those of us who are "Ex-Pats", and have left our native land to other adopted lands, such as Canada, The United States, Australia, Britain, New Zealand, and elsewhere. To find out more about these books send an e-mail to the author himself, by clicking on his photo above.

To read some excerpts from these books, selected by the author himself, please check Dr Michael Riccioli's page.