Επέτειος του Όχι, The anniversary of NO -
October 28th, Oxi Day (pronounced Ohi) is one of the most important national holidays, celebrated by all Greek communities around the world. The Church of Greece even moved the holy feast of the Intercession of the Theotokos “Γιορτή της Αγίας Σκέπης” - originally October 1st, in order to add a religious layer to the national day, and for the miraculous protection of the nation during the Second World War.
Why this day is important
It was on this day back in 1940 the Prime Minister of Greece, Ioannis Metaxas, denied the Italian dictator Benito Mussolini’s request to allow Italian troops to cross the border into Greece, to occupy strategic areas of Greece in the war against the Allies. Refusal would be seen as an act of complicity with the enemy. Greece had tried to remain neutral in the early days of World War Two, the Axis powers of Italy and Nazi Germany were already at war with the Allies, including Great Britain and its Commonwealth, France and Poland.
His response to the Italian ultimatum was in French, the diplomatic language at the time -
“Alors, c’est la gueree!” or “Then it is War!”
Once the news of Metaxas’ denial had spread, the Greek population took to the streets shouting “Oxi!”. Entry into the war was greeted with widespread enthusiasm, men flocked to the recruiting offices to join the war effort and morale was high. The whole nation joined forces to combat the foreign enemy, this led to the Greek Resistance.
The Greek Army turned out to be a formidable force, even the Führer himself acknowledged the Greek soldiers’ courage. A series of stunning Greek victories along the northern borders forced the Italian army to retreat months later in the spring of 1941. It was a devastating blow and a humiliating defeat for the Axis Powers.
Winston Churchill commented at the time of the Greco-Italian war and famously said,
“Hence we will not say that Greeks fight like heroes, but that heroes fight like Greeks.”
How this day is celebrated
The biggest celebrations in Greece happen in Thessaloniki and Athens, with a student and military parade and many officials attending. The Prime Minister lays a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in front of the Parliament Building in Syntagma Square.
In all other cities, towns, and villages throughout Greece, there is a widespread celebration consisting of buildings and residences decorated with the national flag, family reunions, and an all-over festive ambiance. People and local dignitaries gather to lay wreaths at the foot of war memorials. School children and students take part in parades along the main street, marching to music and singing popular songs. All shops, schools and businesses are closed for the day, except for cafes and restaurants. However, archaeological sites and public museums are open, and admission is free on this important day.
Ioannis Metaxas’ decision made on 28th October 1940 is commemorated each year as a day that represents bravery, solidarity and heroism for millions of Greeks all around the world.
Χρόνια πολλά kαί του χρόνου!!
Post by Nikki Franks Falloon
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