It was the darkest moment in Malta's history. In 1942, the island was potholed with bombs dropped by German and Italian aircraft in an attempt to neutralise the British bases in Malta. 

By then Malta was believed to be the most bombed place in the world per square mile during what was known as the darkest period for the Allies in the fight against the Nazis.

Food rations in Malta were practically finished, and the population was on the brink of starvation. Fuel was restricted to military action and even ammunition was running out, so much that anti-aircraft guns could only fire a few rounds per day.

The George Cross.

While people suffered, a final assault to neutralise the island was ordered by the German Field Marshal Albert Kesselring. No fewer than 1,728 tons of bombs were dropped on Malta during that period, almost 6,000 houses and other buildings were destroyed, 300 people, including 70 children, were killed and another 329 seriously wounded. In April 1942, more bombs were dropped on Malta and Gozo than on the whole of the UK during the Battle of Britain between July and October 1940.

However, despite the destruction, the people's heroism withstood every attack. 

The award was widely reported in Times of Malta.

On April 15, 1942 King George VI awarded the George Cross to the people of Malta in appreciation of their heroism, a symbol which became immortalised on the Maltese flag.

While intended mainly for civilians, the George Cross is awarded also to certain fighting services. The medal is awarded only for acts of the greatest heroism or the most conspicuous courage in circumstances of extreme danger.

"To honour her brave people I award the George Cross to the Island Fortress of Malta to bear witness to a heroism and devotion that will long be famous in history..." King George wrote in his letter.

A public award ceremony in Valletta was held on September 13, 1942, a month after the arrival of the Santa Maria Convoy, which is widely believed to have saved the island from starvation. 

King George's letter is immortalised on the facade of the Palace in Valletta.