Malta's Strategic Role in WWII

The video details Malta's strategic role in WWII, likened to an unsinkable aircraft carrier. In 1942, the Luftwaffe launched a relentless bombing campaign on Malta, causing severe shortages. The British devised Operation Pedestal to supply the island, involving a large convoy protected by a significant naval escort. Despite heavy losses, the convoy, including the damaged SS Ohio, reached Malta, providing crucial supplies.

Why was Malta considered strategically important during World War II?

• It was a major oil producer.

• It served as a base for launching attacks on Axis supply lines.

• It was a neutral territory.

• It had a large population of soldiers.

What was the main challenge faced by the Maltese population during the air raids?

• Shortage of food and supplies

• Lack of medical facilities

• Inability to evacuate

• Lack of communication

What was the primary objective of Operation Pedestal?

• To establish a new naval base

• To attack German forces in Africa

• To provide Malta with essential supplies

• To invade Italy

Which ship was central to the Operation Pedestal convoy?

• HMS Belfast

• SS Ohio

• USS Enterprise

• HMS Victory

How many merchant ships were part of the Operation Pedestal convoy?

• 25

• 20

• 14

• 10

What was the significance of the SS Ohio's cargo?

• It had fuel crucial for defending Malta.

• It was carrying troops.

• It contained gold and silver.

• It was transporting food supplies.

What was the main threat to the convoy during its journey?

• Mechanical failures

• Severe weather conditions

• Pirate attacks

• German air and submarine attacks

Who was the war correspondent on board the SS Ohio?

• Walter Cronkite

• Ernie Pyle

• Anthony Kimmins

• Edward R. Murrow

What was the outcome for the SS Ohio after reaching Malta?

• It was repaired and returned to service.

• It was converted into a museum.

• It was sunk by enemy forces.

• It was so damaged it could never sail again.

What was the fate of the majority of the merchant ships in the convoy?

• They were diverted to another location.

• They were destroyed by German forces.

• They all reached Malta safely.

• They returned to their home ports.