“…until now we would say that the Greeks fight like heroes. From now on we will say that heroes fight like Greeks.” | Winston Churchill

Greek Orthodox Church, Kos Island

On October 28, 1940, the Italian ambassador to Greece, Emanuele Grazzi delivered an ultimatum from Benito Mussolini to Greek Prime Minister Ioannis Metaxas.

The ultimatum was demanding the entry of the Italian army forces in Greece and the occupation of territory. While,  if they refused, they faced war.

The response by PM Metaxas, was “Alors, c’est la guerre” that is “Then, it is war,” (French was the language of diplomacy at the time).

However, this phrase was quickly altered by locals, and a sharp “Oxi” (meaning no) , replaced it.
The people of Greece under the prospect of a foreign oppressor flocked the streets of Athens, singing Greek patriotic songs.  Aggression had unified an entire Greek nation, who were lining up to enlist for the war front.

Ever since,”Oxi” day is a symbol of national resistance and Greeks celebrate it annually to honor the noble heroes, men and women, who fought for a free Greek nation.

Photo Credit: Curtis Gregory Perry

As a national holiday commands, military and student parades take place in all major Greek cities.

Soldiers, armed vehicles parade to demonstrate their pride and respect to the ancestors. All shops, schools and businesses are closed on this day.

It is a proud occasion for all Greeks and a unique opportunity for visitors to witness a country celebrating with pride their independence and their identity.

For a detailed schedule of the celebrations that will take place in Kos, please click here.

Sources: greece.greekreporter.com | simpsontravel.com