George Cross cameraman to return for re-enactment

An RAF technician who filmed the presentation of the George Cross to Malta 66 years ago, Jack Vowles, will be returning to witness the first ever re-enactment of that historical event.

The re-enactment will take place at Palace Square, in Valletta, on Tuesday, which will be the anniversary of the granting of the medal by King George VI to Malta in 1942.The medal was actually presented to Malta on September 13, 1942, when it was safe enough for a ceremony of that nature to be held.

The silver cross was presented by the new Governor, Lord Gort, to Chief Justice Sir George Borg as representative of the people. The medal was then displayed in the centre of the square, guarded by Maltese soldiers. Palace Square, where the presentation was made, bore the scars of war. The buildings on one side, opposite Piazza Regina, were partly in ruins and a blast wall that looked like a rubble wall could be seen in front of part of the palace.

But a large crowd still ringed the square to witness the event, which was focused on a dais decorated with the Union Jack.

Those present included Malta's bishops and senior military commanders.

The re-enactment on Tuesday will be presented by the Malta Tourism Authority.

Mr Vowles will be in a group of 60 from the George Cross Island Association coming to Malta today.