Current Issues - 1999

November 1999

Malta the only other collective recipient of the George Cross

The George Cross could change some of our symbols. This is the flag of Malta, the only other collective recipient of the George Cross. The Cross on the flag is not the famed Maltese Cross, but the George Cross.

The George Cross was instituted in 1940, consisting of a silver cross with a medallion in the centre bearing a design of St George and the Dragon. It takes precedence before all other medals except the Victoria Cross. The medal was conferred on the island in 1942 after it repelled the Axis powers against severe odds, having been one of the most heavily bombed targets of that conflict.

Malta now proudly incorporates the medal in its flag. With this honourable precedent, perhaps the Royal Ulster Constabulary should consider doing the same.