Sydney: Hellenic National Defence Force visit to All Saints Grammar for 83rd Anniversary of the Battle of Crete
All Saints Grammar School in Belmore, Sydney is proud to have hosted a delegation from the Hellenic National Defence Force on Wednesday 15 May 2024, with whom we commemorated the 83rd Anniversary of the Battle of Crete.
Captain Pavlos Angelopoulos, representing the Hellenic National Defence General Staff captivated an audience of our students with an address full of insights and reflections on the historic significance of the Battle of Crete. They shared compelling narratives highlighting the bravery and sacrifice of those who participated in the battle, leaving a lasting impression on students, staff, and guests in attendance. They provided invaluable context and perspective on the enduring friendship between Greece and Australia, emphasising the shared values of courage and resilience.
Led by Vice Admiral Christos Sasiakos GRC N, Deputy Chief of the Hellenic National Defence General Staff, accompanied by his wife, Mrs Maria Karadimitriou, the delegation included Lieutenant Commander Stylianos Mitsiotis and, Colonel Ioannis Fasianos, the Military Attaché of the Hellenic National Force based in Canberra.
Mr Yannis Mallikourtis, Consul General of Greece in Sydney, in his address, reinforced the strong bond between the two nations and the importance of preserving the memory of past sacrifices for future generations.
“It was an honour to host officers from the Hellenic Defence Force. The assembly served as a poignant reminder of the lasting legacy of the Battle of Crete” said Mrs Lillis the Head of School.
The Hellenic Defence Force expresses heartfelt gratitude to All Saints Grammar School for hosting this meaningful event and looks forward to continuing to strengthen the ties between Greece and Australia. ..
At All Saints Grammar, the school’s Greek calendar is filled with events that immerse students in religion, culture, and history. Notable occasions include Τριώδιο-Απόκριες (season preceding Lent), Καθαρά Δευτέρα (Clean Monday), Ευαγγελισμός της Θεοτόκου (Annunciation of the Theotokos), Πάσχα (Orthodox Easter), Η Μάχη της Κρήτης (Battle of Crete), All Saints Day, Η Κοίμησις της Θεοτόκου (Dormition of the Theotokos), and OXI Day (28 October).
Students at ASG learn about these events through Modern Greek and Orthodoxy lessons, often organising special presentations or during school assemblies. Modern Greek Language lessons, provides students with a strong foundation in language skills and a deeper understanding of Hellenic culture. The lessons aim to cultivate religious and cultural awareness through practical, immersive experiences. These lessons go beyond words, fostering a profound understanding of the interconnectedness of faith, language, and culture.
All Saints Grammar has been helping shape the lives of students and partnering with families since 1990. Founded by the Parish and Community of Belmore and District, the School was established to support families in their quest to introduce and instil Hellenic values and the Orthodox Christian faith to the next generation of Greek Australians. Today, our School attracts students from many different faiths and backgrounds.
ASG is now accepting enrolments for 2026. To learn more about our school, visit the All Saints Grammar website.
