WWII Operation Pedestal marked on Tower Hill, London

The George Cross Island Association (GCIA) held a remembrance service at the Church of All Hallows at Tower Hill by the Tower of London, to commemorate Operation Pedestal.

The ceremony, attended by members of the three services and of the Merchant Navy who served in Malta during World War II, as well as by a good number of Maltese residents in the UK, was organised on behalf of GCIA by the association's South East Region chaired by Julia Gaw.

The Malta High Commission was represented by High Commissioner Michael Refalo and Deputy High Commissioner Bernard Hamilton.

Mrs Gaw praised the High Commissioner for his outstanding contribution to Anglo-British relations, to the GCIA as well as for his and Mrs Blanche Refalo's constant support for the association.

In his reply the High Commissioner stressed that the ceremony was not intended to glorify victory and force of arms but to thank Almighty God and underline the commitment of the people of Malta and the United Kingdom to the cause of peace.

The service continued with the laying of wreaths at the foot of the Second Great Siege of Malta monument unveiled by President Eddie Fenech Adami and the Duke of Edinburgh in 2005.