On Wednesday,29 November 2023, the Deputy Minister of National Defence, Mr. Ioannis Kefalogiannis, accompanied by the Chief of Hellenic Air Force General Staff, Lieutenant General (HAF) Themistoklis Bourolias, attended the oath-taking ceremony of new Airmen at the 124 th Basic Training Wing, where he was greeted by the Commander, Colonel (HAF) Grigorios Diolatzis. The ceremony was also attended by the Deputy Head of Region for Peloponnese, Christos Lambropoulos, the Deputy Mayor of Tripolis, Georgios Lagos, the Auxiliary Bishop, Mr. Theoklitos, the Commander of the Hellenic Air Force Support Command, Lieutenant General (HAF) Dimosthenis Grigoriadis, the Commander of the Hellenic Air Force Training Command, Major General (HAF) Vassilios Papachristou, the Commanding General of the Training Centre Command, Major General Ioannis Dimitrellos, as well as friends and relatives of the new Airmen.

In his address the Deputy Minister stated:

“It is with great pleasure that I welcome here today to the ranks of the Armed forces the newly recruited airmen of the 2023 D Training Series of the Hellenic Air Force, who took an oath or made a promise of loyalty and dedication to the Country. Today’s oath-taking ceremony constitutes a unique moment, as you have

successfully completed your basic training, and you are called to serve the Armed Forces with loyalty and dedication, living up to the expectations of the Greek people and the trust that they show you.

New Airmen,

During your time of service you will be given the opportunity to utilise your skills, offering your services to protect national interests, to contribute to society, and also acquire skills that will be helpful in your future professional career.

Your service constitutes a great honour and duty for everyone. It is the greatest form of contribution to the Country and Greeks everywhere. We serve a Country with a long history, the cradle of global culture, and a people that has learnt to live free. Be proud of the chance that has been given to you to defend the most important gift to mankind; the gift of freedom.

The challenges that you will face during the months of your service are numerous, with the first one being your adaptation to the military way of life. Face the difficulties with optimism, with a smile in your everyday lives, and with a positive mindset. Always have a victor’s spirit and believe that you can achieve anything. Arm yourselves with patience and persistence, possibly the
two greatest virtues of mankind. Always remember that your main concern must be your safety, by always following the necessary safety measures; not only in the workplace, but also in your personal lives. I assure you that both the political and military Leadership will continue to make every possible effort, so that your training level remains high and the living conditions are such, so you can fulfil your mission without distractions.

Parents of the newly enlisted young men,

I would like to thank you for the trust that you show in the Armed Forces. You entrust us with your children, the most valuable thing in your lives, and this is the greatest honour for us. Be proud of your children, who will dedicate an important part of their lives in their Country’s service, and support them during the time of their service together with us.

At this point I would like to warmly congratulate the Commander and Staff of the 124 th Basic Training Wing for their excellent work and the results they achieved. I assure you that the Political and Military Leadership will support you in your attempts to improve training and living conditions.

I wish you a good service.”