Yesterday, on Monday May 25th, the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia and the Greek Consulate in Perth, commemorated the 79th anniversary of the Battle of Crete.
The ceremony was held at the State War Memorial at Kings Park in Perth.
In accordance with Health Ministry regulations, the ceremony was attended by a limited number of representatives including the Consul General of Greece in Perth Georgia Karasiotou, the Maritime Follower Katerina Argyrakopoulou, representatives of the political and military authorities of Western Australia, as well as representatives of community organisations and veterans’ organisations.
The memorial prayer was chanted by Bishop Elpidios of Kyaneon – Archiepiscopal Vicar of Perth, accompanied by Father Eleftherios Gerovasilis. Wreaths were also laid at the monument.
In his message, Bishop Elpidios of Kyaneon emphasised that it is our sacred obligation to remember and honour the heroes of the historic Battle of Crete and at the same time to pass on the values and ideals for which they fought to future generations. The Bishop also mentioned the significant contribution of Australians who fought and shed their blood on Cretan soil, noting that the anniversary of this glorious and historic event is another occasion to reflect and reaffirm the strong bonds of friendship that unite the people of Greece and Australia.