Stanley J. A. Clews, writes:

There is a saying that goes "old soldiers never die, they only fade away" - the same is often said for sailors as well - and it certainly applies in the case of both Major John Arrigo and former RN Chief Petty Officer Tony Buhagiar who went to a better life a few days ago, John at the age of 90 and Tony at the age of 93. Both were committee members of the Malta Branch of the George Cross Island Association from the time of its foundation in 199As national chairman of the George Cross Island Association and honorary secretary of the Malta Branch I had close contacts with these two gentlemen, both veterans of the Malta Siege and, in the case, of Mr Buhagiar probably the most decorated Maltese of World War II, making his name firstly serving in submarines in the Mediterranean and later in those dangerous Russian convoys in the Arctic seas.

While still in the post-war navy, he served with distinction with senior officers and was given special duties with the Queen and Prince Philip when they were in Malta.

In the case of Major Arrigo, to me he was the perfect gentleman, a loyal friend throughout the years I have known him; typically British when dealing with a foreigner but Maltese to the core when with his fellow Maltese. He was a man who gave much to his country both during his Service career and later in civilian life.

Both John and Tony will be greatly missed by their remaining colleagues in the GCIA and on behalf of all the members of our association, both in Malta and in the UK, I send our deepest sympathy to their families in this time of loss.