A few years back, I had written about a little known brave Maltese lady who, during World War II, helped save many lives in Nazi-occupied Rome.

This woman was Henrietta Chevalier née Xerri.

Her son, Paul, was instrumental in introducing his mother to the escape line as set up by Mgr Hugh O’Flaherty.

Paul settled in Canada where he died last August age 89 years. His last wish was to be buried in Malta with his mother at the Addolorata Cemetery.

His ashes were brought over by Chris Saija (a very rare Maltese surname, his father being originally from Valletta).

The ‘burial’ took place on October 27.

Some ashes were also dispersed in the Henrietta Chevalier Memorial Garden at the Malta Aviation Museum.

A small urn containing ashes was also presented to the chapel of the museum. It joins other similar urns of WWII fighters. The simple but touching ceremonies were attended by family members.

I would like to conclude with a more than legitimate request. Is it not time to name a street after this brave woman? Eman Bonnici will be dedicating a programme on Radio Maria about the Maltese involved in the Rome escape line.