Today marks the 79th anniversary of the arrival of the Santa Marija convoy, as it is known in Malta – and its official title – Operation Pedestal. It is commemorated as a great episode of Maltese history.

This convoy saved Malta from surrender when the allied convoy of food and fuel reached the islands on the 15th of August 1942, despite the heavy bombardment inflicted by German and Italian planes and the sinking of many of the ships.

The Ohio tanker and its escort barely made it to Malta, but these ships provided vital supplies to save Malta from surrender.

A memorial wreath-laying service was held at the Grand Harbour on Friday evening to remember those lost at sea during World War II in a bid to save Malta and was attended by President George Vella.During the ceremony, which was organised by the Royal Navy Association (Malta Branch) and officiated by Rev. Canon Simon Godfrey, Chancellor of the Anglican Cathedral, AFM buglers played the Last Post and the Reveille, and a one-minute silence was observed. Memorial wreaths were then dropped into the sea.

Commenting at the end of the ceremony, the President said that as time goes by, many of the younger generations are forgetting the significance of this past event that had an impact on our lives.While voicing his appreciation to the service organisers, he said that, “in commemorating these events we must remind ourselves of the bravery of the Maltese and, more importantly, pay tribute to those who gave their lives and shaped the history of our country in the way it has been shaped.”

The Malta Command – WW2 Living History Group and the WWII Veterans Association also participated in the ceremony.

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