The Deputy Minister of National Defence Thanasis Davakis represented the Hellenic Government in the celebrations for the National Anniversary of the 25th of March in Sparta.
Mr. Davakis attended the Doxology in the Holy Metropolitan Church of the Annunciation of the Theotokos, which was officiated by his Eminence the Metropolitan of Monemvasia and Sparta, Mr. Efstathios, as well as the Memorial Service at the Tomb of Leonidas, where he laid a wreath and spectated the parade by local students and troops of the Supply and Transportation Training Centre.
After the parade, Mr. Davakis stated:
“On this Holy Day for all Greeks, I had the honour to represent the Hellenic Government in the festivities in Sparta.
The 25th of March 1821 is not a common date. It is a reminiscence of duty: the fact that freedom is gained through sacrifice and maintained through constant vigilance. It reminds us that the power of a people is not only found in its assets, but mainly in its spirit. It is that spirit which led the fighters of the Revolution to victory and which we ought to maintain today.
Recent international developments remind us that national independence is not to be taken for granted; we ensure its prevalence daily. The deterrent capability of our Country is a modern expression of that same determination shown by the freedom fighters of 1821.
For this reason, reinforcing the Armed Forces constitutes a national priority for this government and the leadership of the Ministry of National Defence. We methodically plan and upgrade our weapon systems and improve the daily lives of our personnel, ensuring high levels of readiness and deterrence.
Many happy returns to all Greek men and women!”
