THE MALTA BOY SCOUT ASSOCIATION

The Scout movement in Malta began in 1908. The Malta Boy Scout Association was registered as a local branch of the British Association and consisted of 150 boys in 6 Scout Troops.

The actions of the Boy Scouts during World War II, provides some of the brightest highlights of their history. Their bravery goes far beyond the Scout Oath and Law.

The Scouts of Malta endured a heavier ordeal than any other association. They worked as coast watchers, messengers, telephone operators, in hospitals and those that were old enough, in the volunteer defense forces. They worked to unload ships while under heavy bombardment. The bravery of these Scouts during the frequent and constant air raids, became well know among the population. Early in the war, they adopted as their motto, "Scarred but not scared."

One tribute to an unknown 17 year old Scout:

"He held a lantern all night enabling men to extricate the persons buried under the debris of a bombed house to see their way and was killed later by a bomb which destroyed the room he was decorating for a children’s party."

Despite the fierce attacks, camping and other Scout activities continued as usual.

In 1964, Malta gained independence. The local Scout Association became independent as well. Two years later, in 1966, they became a member of WOSM.

Today, The Scout Association of Malta has 2,772 (January 1, 1998) uniformed members in more than 24 groups in 4 districts.

Information was obtained from the web page of Keith Sacco.

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