The Malta Independent 14 May 2024, Tuesday
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‘Aussie Shield’

Monday, 25 April 2016, 14:50 Last update: about 9 years ago

78th Fighter Wing, Royal Australian Air Force

Malta History 1952-1954

By Colonel Mark Said AFM Ret'd

 

Aussie Shield sheds light on the Australian Air Force's 78th Fighter Wing Malta story throughout the period 1952 to 1954.  

Operating Vampire and Meteor fighter aircraft from Hal Far, Ta' Kali and Luqa, the Aussies left their mark on Malta's military, social and sports events. Mission accomplished, the airmen returned home as experienced veterans and heroes. 

Colonel Said's research began more than 15 years ago as a spare time project but on his retirement, Charles Mizzi, a veteran journalist and close friend, encouraged him to put it on the book shelves. 

Printed by Union Print, the book is available from leading bookshops for the price of €20. Publication was made possible thanks to the generous financial support of Kordin Grain Terminal with all proceeds from the sale of the book going to Id-Dar tal-Providenza at Siggiewi, a home for persons with disabilities. 

Aussie Shield is etched as a proud chapter in the outstanding Royal Australian Air Force history and a reminder of Australia's contribution towards world peace.  A fitting memorial to a little-known overseas deployment accomplished by a proud Force. 

The book is available from all the Agenda Bookshop outlets. All proceeds will go to Id-Dar Tal-Providenza.


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