A special military parade took place in Thessaloniki, Greece, on Saturday, October 28 to celebrate OXI Day.
OXI Day commemorates the anniversary of Greece’s refusal to fascist aggression in 1940.
The military parade was celebrated in Thessaloniki with armoured vehicles, tanks, infantry and special forces. It took place in front of the President of the Hellenic Republic, Katerina Sakellaropoulou.
“Today, on the anniversary of the heroic ‘OXI,’ we pay tribute to those who fought and sacrificed for our freedom and acknowledge our debt to them,” Sakellaropoulou said.
“The Armed Forces, inspired by the spirit that united the Greeks in the crucial moments of our history, defend our non-negotiable rights.
“In the turbulent and ever-changing international landscape we inhabit, Greece will continue to emphasise its national rights and remain a pillar of stability and peace in our broader region.”
Hellenic Air Force fighter jets including French-made Rafale fighter jets and Marder 1A3 armoured combat vehicles and TTOA M1117 reconnaissance vehicles were also seen to soar over the city.
As part of the celebrations, many students from Greek schools took part in the parade.
Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis also made a comment to commemorate OXI Day, after visiting the Holy Metropolitan Church of the Assumption of the Virgin in Chania, Crete.
“Today is a day of memory, honour, and pride, and our thoughts return 83 years to those who resolutely said ‘NO,’ to the young fighters in the Pindus Mountains and Albania,” he said.
“Our primary tribute goes to those who never returned to their families, to a warm home, or even to a decent burial.
“Eighty-three years later, our country stands as a pillar of stability in a troubled neighborhood. Our strong Armed Forces ensure our deterrence capability.”
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