Princess Anne, the Princess Royal, is visiting Greece to participate in international ceremonies commemorating the 85th anniversary of the Battle of Crete.
On Friday, President Konstantinos Tasoulas held a reception for the Princess, who emphasized that “the commemoration of the 85th anniversary of the Battle of Crete is very significant for both our countries—and naturally for Australians and New Zealanders as well—but above all for the people of Crete, who suffered more than anyone.”
She also mentioned that she had visited Greece in the past during the Olympic Games and later on to receive the Olympic Flame ahead of the London Olympic Games, experiences she noted were highly enjoyable. She highlighted that, at this stage in her life, she is particularly interested in historical perspectives. Turning to Tasoulas, she added, “You understand history in a much more organized way than I do. For my part, I must say I simply follow it as time goes by.”
Princess Anne to visit Chania to honor Battle of Crete
Following her engagements in the capital, the Princess Royal will travel to Crete to honor the immense sacrifices of Allied and Greek forces during one of the most fiercely contested campaigns of the Second World War.
In Chania, Princess Anne is scheduled to attend a solemn service at the Royal Air Force (RAF) Memorial in Maleme, paying tribute to the brave airmen of the 30 and 33 Squadrons who lost their lives in May 1941. She will also join international dignitaries for a Service of Remembrance at the beautifully maintained Commonwealth War Graves Commission Cemetery at Souda Bay.
Before concluding her visit, the Princess Royal will meet with local families and descendants of the Cretan resistance fighters and Allied soldiers who fought side-by-side during the invasion.
Related: Why King Charles’ Mother, Queen Elizabeth, Had Never Visited Greece
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