Calls for the national recognition of the Battle of Crete were made in Federal Parliament this week by Calwell MP Maria Vamvakinou and Hindmarsh MP Steve Georganas.
The motion made in the House of Representatives by Mr Georganas and seconded by Ms Vamvakinou aimed to elevate the significance of the Battle of Crete among the wider Australian community.
The motion coincided with the 69th anniversary of The Battle of Crete which began on 20 May, 1941.
The Battle took place three weeks after the Allies lost mainland Greece and consisted of Allied forces made up of three British battalions, two New Zealand brigades, eight Greek battalions and six Australian battalions.
During the battle, in which the Germans occupied Crete, the Greeks and Australians sacrificed much and suffered terribly in unison, and side by side, in their defence of the island.
Ms Vamvakinou said the loss endured by the local population and the gallantry of the soldiers is something that has forged an eternal bond between Australia and Greece and needs to be honoured.
“We need to look at raising awareness about the Battle of Crete particularly among the younger Australian generations.”
“As a community, and as Australians of Greek background we need to consider ways to commemorate the Battle at Crete .”
‘’Perhaps we need to look at a campaign to include The Battle of Crete in school curricula, or have a commemorative stamp or coin issued.’’
Mr Georganas said: “When you think of all the significant battles Australian troops have participated in, you cannot go past the fact the Battle of Crete was among one of the most heroic tribulations.
“Although the Battle of Crete has been mentioned in parliament before, this is the first time a formal motion was tabled, and agreed to by all sides of politics.”
“The motion is an opportunity to ensure we elevate the status of the Battle of Crete to ensure it is commemorated on an ongoing basis.”
“This is also an opportunity to remind people of the struggle and role that Australian and Greek soldiers played in World War II. I will continue to speak about the Battle of Crete as long as I am in Parliament.’’
Media contact: Marianthi Kypuros (03) 9309 3655 or Hannah Frank (08) 8376 9000 or 0419 849 048.
