National pride and deep emotion permeated the commemorative events held in Melbourne on Saturday, 20 May marking the 82nd anniversary of the Battle of Crete.
With reverence, all the speakers paid homage to the Australian and Allied soldiers who served and sacrificed in Crete.
They also acknowledged the resilience and benevolence of the Cretan people, who not only displayed unwavering bravery in defending their island but also demonstrated extraordinary self-sacrifice and unwavering support in safeguarding and accompanying the Allied forces.
Organised by the Battle of Crete Remembrance Council, the day’s events included a Wreath Laying Ceremony at the Shrine of Remembrance, symbolising the enduring remembrance of the battle and its significance.
In attendance were distinguished members of the General Staff of the National Defence Staff in Australia, including Vice General George Kyriakou, Chief of Staff; Commander of the Navy Stylianos Mitsiotis, Chief of Staff of the Air Force; and Colonel Ioannis Fassianos, Military Attaché of Greece in Canberra, who accompanied the delegation.
The 82nd anniversary of the Battle of Crete received warm messages and tributes from world leaders, affirming the historical ties between Greece and Australia. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese conveyed his heartfelt sentiments, stating, “We remember these historic events and honour the numerous civilians and soldiers who were wounded or killed in battle. We also celebrate the enduring bonds between Australia and Greece forged through that terrible experience. Today, the friendship between our societies remains strong, underpinned by our longstanding political and popular ties and our shared history of war and peace.”
Likewise, Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis emphasised the significance of the Battle of Crete, which served as a pivotal moment in history, strengthening the diplomatic relations between New Zealand, Australia, and Greece. He remarked, “It is a milestone in our history, arming us with greater resolve in our daily struggles for solidarity, human dignity, democracy, peace, and a better future.”
Archbishop Makarios, highlighted the “indomitable spirit of the Cretan people’ in his message on the occasion. He commended their “unwavering determination, refusing to surrender without a fight to the would-be conquerors of their majestic island”.
He stated, “Today, we honour their memory with infinite respect and gratitude, not only for the heroic struggle they fought and their sacrifice for the freedom of our homeland but also for the valuable lessons they allow us to draw from their example: that in every trial, big or small, we must face it with courage, resilience, and an unwavering spirit.”
The Archbishop also paid special tribute to the ANZAC heroes who shed their blood on the soil of Crete, as they shared the same noble values as the Cretan people and all Greeks. He emphasised their crucial role in fostering a lasting bond between the two distant lands.
“With their self-denial and sacrifice, they have laid the foundations of a bridge that will forever unite our two brotherly peoples. We wholeheartedly honour them and express our deepest gratitude,” he stated.
