It was an emotional day that will remain etched in the memories of the thousands who took part or attended the Independence Day ceremonies between September 20 and 21, 1964. It was the crowning glory of then Prime Minister George Borg Olivier. The climax was reached when the Union flag descended and the Maltese flag was hoisted in its stead, under a full moon. As the bells rang out in a peal of rejoice, the evening came to a fit end with fireworks that let the Grand Harbour.