Greece Honors World War II Fallen Heroes in El Alamein

On Saturday, Greek officials in Egypt paid tribute to the fallen heroes of historic battles in the city of El Alamein, with a ceremonial event held at the Greek Military Memorial.

The ceremony featured an honor guard from the Presidential Guard, commemorative speeches, and wreath-laying to honor those who sacrificed their lives for freedom and human dignity.

The event saw strong participation from the Greek authorities and embassy, the Hellenic Armed Forces, and members of the Greek community in Egypt. 

Attendees included Vice Chief of General Staff Admiral Theodoros Mikropoulos, Greek Ambassador Nikolaos Papageorgiou, Governor of Marsa Matrouh, the Ambassador of Cyprus, Poli Ioannou, as well as diplomats from the Greek and Cypriot embassies, military attachés from several European and international embassies, and representatives from the Egyptian Ministry of Defense.

In a keynote address, Vice Chief of General Staff Admiral Theodoros Mikropoulos reflected on the historic significance of the site.

He said that the Battle of El Alamein marked a strategic turning point. Here, the Axis advance was halted, vital maritime supply lines were secured, and conditions were set for the eventual defeat of Nazi domination in Europe. 

This victory inspired hope in nations and proved that unity, determination, and unwavering faith in the ideals of freedom and human dignity can overcome even the most formidable threats."

He continued that Greece played a significant role in this globally important struggle. Despite the hardships of occupation, Greek soldiers and sailors fulfilled their duty with courage and sacrifice. 

Nearly 9,000 Greeks found themselves in North Africa, fighting valiantly in the trenches of El Alamein, on destroyer decks, in submarines, and aboard merchant vessels. 

Losses were heavy, yet their sacrifices laid the foundation for ultimate victory. Our presence here today is not just a commemoration but a duty to those who fell, and a reminder that freedom is not a gift but is earned through blood, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to duty. 

These are the values the Hellenic Armed Forces have upheld throughout history: honor, courage, and devotion to comrades and country.

He emphasized the enduring bond between Greece and Egypt that both countries beyond being allies in this historic struggle, remain connected to this day by ties of friendship, spiritual kinship, and mutual respect. 

The Greek diaspora in Egypt embodies this relationship, serving as a living bridge between our peoples and reminding us that our civilizations have walked together through the centuries, rooted in shared history and a commitment to tolerance and cooperation.

On his side, Greek Ambassador Nikolaos Papageorgiou addressed the audience, saying that every year, at this very site, they honor the memory of the 89 Greek soldiers who fell in the battles of El Alamein. This year marks the 83rd anniversary of those historic engagements.

Following the speeches, Colonel Evangelos Nikolakakos read the names and ranks of the fallen Greek heroes. 

The ceremony included a video presentation from the Greek War Museum, showcasing Greece’s participation in the celebrated battles of El Alamein.