Greek Independence Day is a special occasion for the Greek community worldwide, commemorating the Greek War of Independence against the Ottoman Empire in 1821. The celebration is marked with various events and ceremonies, including a visit by the Greek Honor Guard, the Evzones. In this article, we will explore the recent visit of the Evzones to St. Thomas Greek Orthodox Church in Cherry Hill, NJ, and the significance of this event for the Greek community in Philadelphia.
The Evzones, also known as the Presidential Guard, are an elite unit of the Greek Army responsible for guarding the Greek President and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Athens. The origins of the Evzones date back to the early 19th century, when Greek soldiers wore traditional Greek costumes during the War of Independence. In the early 20th century, the Evzones became an official unit of the Greek Army and have since become a symbol of Greek patriotism and bravery.
The visit of the Evzones to St. Thomas Greek Orthodox Church was part of the Greek Independence Day weekend celebrations in Philadelphia. The event was organized by the Federation of Hellenic-American Societies of Philadelphia and the Greater Delaware Valley and was attended by hundreds of parishioners, Greek school students, and guests.
The event’s historical presentation about the Evzones and their part in Greek history was its highlight. The unit’s history, traditions, and distinctive uniform and ceremonial responsibilities were detailed in the presentation. The presentation also highlighted the Evzones’ role in the Greek War of Independence and their bravery and sacrifice throughout the country’s history.
Following the historical presentation, the audience was invited to share poems about the Greek revolution and the struggle for independence. Several parishioners and Greek school students recited poems in both Greek and English, highlighting the enduring spirit of Greek patriotism and pride.
The visit of the Evzones to St. Thomas Greek Orthodox Church was a special occasion for the Greek community in Philadelphia, celebrating the legacy and bravery of the Greek people in their struggle for independence. The event highlighted the enduring spirit of Greek patriotism and pride and the critical role of the Evzones in preserving and promoting Greek history and culture.