Urgent - Anzac Commemorations in Greece Cancelled

East Mudros Military Cemetery, Lemnos. Photo Jim Claven

The Lemnos Gallipoli Commemorative Committee has been informed that due to the COVID-19 virus the planned Gallipoli commemorations scheduled for April 2020 will not long be held. This is consistent with not only Greek Government advice regarding the holding of public events at this time. Although we have not been able to confirm the situation with the Australian Embassy in Athens, it can be expected that the Anzac Day commemorations, held every 25th April at Phaleron War Cemetery in Athens, will also not be held this year. It can also be assumed that other public Anzac commemorations planned for other parts of Greece - such as Crete - will also not be held as public events.
Those seeking further information should contact the relevant local authorities in Greece.

Although this is disappointing to those wishing to take part in these commemorations, it is entirely understandable and appropriate in the circumstances. A similar approach is being taken in Australia regarding Anzac Day commemorations.

We look forward to the Anzac commemorations which will take place in April-May 2021, which coincides with the 80th anniversary of the Greek campaign of 1941. Hope to see you all there.

Lemnos Gallipoli Memorial, Lemnos Square, Albert Park. Photo Jim Claven

We also hope that we will be able to hold our annual Lemnos Gallipoli service at our Lemnos Gallipoli Memorial in Lemnos Square, Albert Park on 8th August - as well as the Armistice of Mudros commemoration at the Shrine of Remembrance on 31st October - latest this year - COVID-19 situation permitting.

Jim Claven
Secretary, Lemnos Gallipoli Commemorative Committee