George Cross - blessing or curse? (2)

Rosanne Spiteri Cutajar (July 26) agrees with Norman E Grech that the George Cross - won by our people for their fortitude, bravery and endurance against a Nazi regime hell bent on World domination - should be removed from our national flag.

At 25 years immature, Ms Spiteri Cutajar has no recollection whatsoever of the hardship our people suffered, and nor it seems does she know much of her island's history.

It was our forefathers who "invited" the British to help them throw out the French - allowed in Malta by the Knights - who were ransacking the island. And it was our forefathers who chose to be governed by the British in return for the defence of the Maltese islands.

Many Maltese served and died during World War II, and it was Sir Winston Churchill in his memoirs who stated that Malta's heroic stand had saved the world from a much longer and devastating conflict. The George Cross was given to the nation - to all the people - as a symbol of gratitude, and is one of Britain's highest honours.

I, for one, cherish it because it reminds me of my father's bravery when a blazing ship laden with badly-needed munitions entered the Grand Harbour in danger of blowing up. A chargeman at the Dockyard, my father led a team of workers on board the burning vessel to help the sailors unload its dangerous cargo. And I have the medal and citation awarded to him proudly framed in my sitting room.

Did Ms Spiteri Cutajar hold a referendum to declare the support of the Maltese people? I agree with her on one point: that people of her age, who care nothing about our history, do support her views.

I am proud of the honour the George Cross bestows on our nation, so much so that, when I send letters abroad, I always end my address with Malta GC.