City Hall Circle & Temple Beth Mordecai, Perth Amboy 3/23/18 *Photos by Paul W. Wang
Greek Independence Day Flag Raising Ceremony
Remarks by George N. Petrakakis, Master of Ceremonies, Event Chairman – 3/23/18
PERTH AMBOY – Today is a day which serves as an inspiration to all those who cherish democracy and freedom. In 1821 after nearly 400 years of Ottoman oppression, the Greeks bound together under a flag bearing the cross the fight for freedom and justice in the land which gave the world democracy. Like the revolution which took place in America 45 years earlier, Greece would embark on a journey forever linking our two countries in their struggle for freedom and independence. The Founding Fathers of the United States of America drew upon the ideals and principles forged inn ancient Greece in constructing our nation. Thomas Jefferson called ancient Greece “the light which led ourselves out of Gothic darkness.” All who cherish a free and democratic government are beneficiaries of Greece’s legacy and thus should consider themselves Philhellenes. Throughout history, Greece and the United States have stood shoulder to shoulder to face the challenges of an ever-changing world. Greece had been allied with the United States in every major conflict of the 20th century. The strong alliance continues into the 21st century. Greece, via Souda Bay, Crete; and other military capabilities, has contributed significantly to NATO and United States missions, including peacekeeping operations, in the ever increasingly important region of the world. Greece continues to do so amid two crippling crises, economic and migratory. And we can be equally proud how the people of Greece have responded – with care, compassion, and philotimo deemed worthy of a Nobel Peace Prize nomination.
Greeks and Greek Americans throughout the United States and world have contributed immensely to world civilization, and their achievements set the standard for others to follow in the areas of medicine, arts, science, philosophy, politics, literature, etc., etc. Greeks and Greek Americans throughout our great nation continue to enhance our social, cultural and economic fabric. Our contributions are immeasurable. The freedom that Greece enjoys today is because of the sacrifices they made 197 years ago…Freedom is never free. Countless lives were lost during the Greek War of Independence which lasted eight years, 1821 to 1829.
We must continue to carry on the spirit of Greek Independence by honoring our fallen comrades, by Annually Raising the Flag of Greece at public venues and having such highly successful celebrations as being done today.
May God Bless Greece and the Greek people for their decisive contributions the world history. Our sincere gratitude to Honorable Wilda Diaz, Mayor, City of Perth Amboy for her support. Thank you to everyone for attending today’s 197th Anniversary of Greece’s Independence and to all who helped make today’s celebration a success. ZHTO H ELLADA! Long Live Greece! God Bless America!
