Malta and the George Cross

Discussion in 'Others' started by Drew5233, Jul 11, 2009.

  1. Drew5233

    Drew5233 #FuturePilot 1940 Obsessive

    I came across an article the other day that stated a lot of historians believe the award was a propaganda tool to persuade the islanders not to surrender.

    It does tie in rather conveniently with the fall of Singapore in Feb 1941 and Malta was on the verge of collapse at the time with an Axis invasion planned. Interestingly one could argue an award isn't given until after the deed was done. Malta 'campaign' was not really resolved until the end of 1942 but the award was announced in April.

    I'm guessing the Nation and Empire was ready for a good news story after Crete, Singapore etc.

    Do you think/know if the award was for the right reasons?

    Cheers
    Andy
     
  2. Drew5233

    Drew5233 #FuturePilot 1940 Obsessive

    [​IMG]

    [​IMG]

    [​IMG]

    The last one is Maj Gen Beak's (CiC Malta) accomodation.

    One of the three Gladiators nicknamed Faith, Hope and Charity by the islanders.
    [​IMG]



    So any Maltese experts out there regarding post #1 ?

    Cheers
     
  3. Donnie

    Donnie Remembering HHWH

    Hi mate,

    My Great Uncle operated out of Malta until his death in Feb '43 when he was shot down. I think perhaps the award should have been made after the war because Aircrew were still dying whilst flying out of Malta after 1942. When i went to Malta and had a look round and really researched how it must have been for them in the war i can say that they deserved the GC hands down....a very brave people.

    Donnie
     
  4. Drew5233

    Drew5233 #FuturePilot 1940 Obsessive

    Hi mate,

    I think perhaps the award should have been made after the war because Aircrew were still dying whilst flying out of Malta after 1942.
    Donnie

    Thats one of the reasons why some have said it was given to encourage them not to surrender after Hong Kong and Singapore fell to the Japanese.

    A kind of don't give up we know you're there jesture.

    Cheers
     

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