Fleet Hargate resident Roy Glencross has personal reasons for special remembrance of the events of August 1942.
His father was a survivor of the Malta Convoy, code-named Pedestal.
The people of the Mediterranean island were starving due to intense Nazi bombardment and deprivation of vital supplies. Situated in a strategic position between Africa and Italy, the battle for control of the region was fierce and unrelenting.
The Nazis were determined to prevent supplies reaching Malta and the convoy was mercilessly bombed, strafed and torpedoed.
Even more determined was the Merchant Navy to save Malta from Nazi aggression.
Fifteen merchant ships set out but only five arrived.
Despite the loss of so many ships and men the island was saved.
In recognition of the people’s bravery and resilience King George VI awarded Malta the George Cross.
Joan Woolard
Associate Member of the Boston & South Holland Merchant Navy Association
