10 veterans from the United Kingdom are volunteering in Malta through a collaboration between Heritage Malta and the Armed Forces of Malta, as part of the Alabaré project 'Boots on the Ground,' which involves preservation works at Fort Delimara.
The project is taking place between 3 and 15 May, 2025, a government statement said.
These former military personnel have received support from Alabaré, a UK-based charity that operates homes and services in England and Wales.
Since 1991, the organisation has been improving lives and currently supports homeless individuals, veterans, youths, people facing mental health challenges, and individuals with learning disabilities.
Marking the 80th anniversary of victory in Europe Day, Culture Minister Owen Bonnici, the UK High Commissioner to Malta Cathy Ward, and Heritage Malta CEO Noel Zammit visited Fort Delimara to meet the volunteers and observe the work being carried out.
This volunteering initiative in Malta aims to give veterans a sense of purpose, belonging, and an opportunity to strengthen their resilience and self-perception.
The group includes both men and women, with the oldest participant being 67 years old. Two of the veterans had also taken part in similar projects in Gibraltar over the past two years.
The first phase of the project focused on preservation work at Fort Delimara, one of Malta's significant historical military sites.
The participants carried out cleaning, rust removal, and painting, to help safeguard the fort's structure while ensuring that its historical features remain accessible for future generations.
The veterans also had the chance to visit various Heritage Malta sites and museums to enrich their experience and deepen their appreciation for Malta's history, architecture, and military heritage.
Bonnici said that this initiative reflects the truly noble spirit of the veterans who, despite their past hardships, chose to give back by contributing to the preservation of Malta's historical heritage.
"The Boots on the Ground project is a clear example of how international collaboration can lead to outcomes that offer not only cultural value but also human impact," Bonnici said, thanking Heritage Malta, the AFM, and Alabaré for their commitment to strengthening mutual respect and community values.
Heritage Malta CEO Noel Zammit praised Alabaré for the initiative and thanked the volunteers for their dedicated work in favour of Malta's cultural heritage.
He said that volunteering with Heritage Malta is a deeply meaningful experience that bears fruit for both Maltese and foreigners.
CEO of Alabaré Andrew Lord said that this collaboration highlights the positive impact that can be achieved when communities work together.
"This group of veterans, supported by Alabaré, has demonstrated how the power of resilience and hope can bring about profound transformation in people's lives," Lord said.