President George Vella and Mrs Vella yesterday attended a commemorative service marking the 77th anniversary of Operation Pedestal.
Representatives from the Royal Navy Association (Malta Branch), Armed Forces of Malta (Maritime Section), and relatives of the sailors who had been on duty for Operation Pedestal were present, as well as dignitaries from the British High Commission and US Embassy. Malta Emigrants’ Commission Monsignor Alfred Vella and Chancellor of St Paul’s Pro-Cathedral Reverend Simon Godfrey presided over the commemorative service.
In his address, President George Vella said how Operation Pedestal, or ‘il-Konvoj ta’ Santa Marija’, is probably one of the most decisive episodes in Malta’s recent past. On this special day, the President continued, we remember and salute the victims of Operation Pedestal and others who bravely gave their lives to protect peace and stability in Europe and the Mediterranean.
This Service, the President concluded, is also a celebration of the bravery and determination of the Maltese population of the post-war period who, through renewed sacrifices, rebuilt the country into a modern and peaceful nation, the state we all can enjoy today.