October 28th marks Greece’s participation in the Second World War, which brings forward many emotions among the Greeks, including national pride, unity and strength.
On October 28, 1940, the former Prime Minister of Greece, Ionannis Mitaxas, said “NO,” or “Ochi” to Mussolinis ultimatum demanding an Axis invasion in Greece during the second world war.
Also this year, on the 28th of October the Ochi day celebration took place in various villages of Chios Island. The day before, in the 2nd school of Vrontados the children from the 5th class performed a little play in remembrance of this day and of the Greek resistance against Germany and Italy.
They singed traditional songs, told the history and danced. Children and parents were very interested in the performance, and proud to see an important part of their history. The day after the children could take part to the parade in Vrontados. The classes were marching, the band playing and the parents and people of the village watching and waving the blue and white national flags.
For us the volunteers it was nice to assist and be the Photographers of the event. We could feel the joyful and proud celebration-atmosphere in the air and the traditional music could transmit also to us the solemnity of the event. The parade was for us a great occasion to get closer to the local community and its culture.
