Today the Catholic Church celebrates the feast of the birth of the Holy Virgin Mary. For Malta this is a very special occasion and it is dubbed as the feast of Our Lady of Victory because on 8th September, of 1565 the Turkish invading force left the Island in defeat after 6 months beseiging the Island and continuous assaults on its fortifications by the cream of the Turkish army against a much inferior force made up of Knights of St John, able-bodied Maltese and foreign mercenaries.
The date also recalls the end of the war in the Mediterranean in WWII. Hereunder is a transcript of a letter from President Franklyn D. Roosevelt dated 5th December, 1943 sent Malta. Any additional comments from my part, who wasn’t yet born in those days would be superfluous:
“In the name of the People of the United States of America 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 for the clearer days which have come.
Malta’s bright story of human fortitude and courage will be read by posterity with wonder and with gratitude through the ages.
What was done in this Island maintains the highest traditions of gallantry men and women from the beginning of time have lived and died to preserve civilization for mankind.”
On 15th April, 1942, Malta, as a nation, was awarded the George Cross, the highest honour which could be given for bravery by Britain,from King George VI, an award which is now part of the Maltese Flag.
Many thanks for looking and for your wonderful comments on yesterday’s picture.
I have goose-bumps reading the history and praise from FDR for your country's role in WWll. This shot perfectly captures the valor it took to stand alone for freedom and the spirit the people of your country share. Now I will know what the symbols on the Maltese flag represent- thanks for a great history lesson and nice capture!
Have a Great Day on this a Special Day to be remembered . not only for Your Great Country, but also for us here in the United States and all Countries who shared in the Gallentry of the People of Malta....Thank You !!!.........wonderful and interesting caption and photo Dione!!!
