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Malta: The George Cross Island

During the Second World War the entire population of the Mediterranean island of Malta earned the George Cross, Britain's highest civilian honour for bravery.  
 
The 'George Cross Island' withstood wave after wave of bombing raids from German and Italian aircraft and never surrendered.
 

 

The people there became chronically short of food and fuel, and by 1942 were on the brink after two and a half years of constant bombing. 

But Malta, and its artillery, went on to play a big part in the success of Allied forces, after 'Operation Pedestal' succeeded in getting desperately needed supplies to the island.

Forces TV's Ali Gibson has been finding out about the country's significant role in World War Two.

More from Forces TV: Remembering Malta's Contribution In World War Two

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