820 NAS HONOURS FALLEN HEROES IN MALTA

820 Naval Air Squadron (NAS) based at RNAS Culdrose, proudly possesses more battle honours than any other in the Fleet Air Arm, including operations against the Bismarck in 1941 and the Falklands Conflict in 1982. One of the lesser known honours awarded was that of the ‘Malta Convoys 1941’. The squadron were embarked upon aircraft carriers such as HMS Ark Royal and HMS Victorious, and were tasked with protecting the convoys that took vital supplies to the besieged island.

Recently personnel from 820 NAS returned to Malta, and took the opportunity to pay their respects to the sailors and airman who paid the ultimate sacrifice on those vital convoys, during the dark days of what became known as the ‘Siege of Malta’.

Lieutenant Commander Stephen Ivill who attended the ceremony, said on the day:

“It is hugely important that we continue to remember the gallantry and sacrifices individuals have made during any war.”

The ceremony was held at the beautiful Malta (Capuccini) Naval Cemetery in the village of Kalkara, on the outskirts of Valletta. It was attended by members of the Maltese Branch of the Royal Navy Association along with their Standard bearer. Following a short service and laying of a wreath a minutes silence was observed.