Princess Anne’s official visit to Chania began Saturday afternoon (23/5) at Maleme, with her first stop at the memorial of the fallen from the 30th and 33rd RAF Squadrons. Princess Anne, accompanied by her husband Sir Tim Laurence, is participating in the anniversary events marking 85 years since the Battle of Crete, representing the United Kingdom.
Memorial service at Maleme in Princess Anne’s presence
A memorial service was held at Maleme at the monument to the fallen of the 30th and 33rd RAF Squadrons, followed by the playing of the National Anthems of Greece and the United Kingdom. The Princess then laid a wreath at the memorial, paying tribute to the fallen. Following this, Mayor of Platanias Yannis Malandrakis also laid a wreath. Additionally, Princess Anne had the opportunity to speak with descendants of Cretan resistance fighters, as well as with British veterans who have chosen Crete as their permanent residence.
See images from the memorial
See images from the wreath laying and Princess Anne’s visit
Reception at Chania airport
Earlier, upon her arrival at Chania airport, the Princess was welcomed by Deputy Regional Governor of Chania Nikolaos Kalogeris and Mayor of Chania Panagiotis Simandirakis.
Program at Souda and Red Arrows flyover
In the afternoon, the Princess will attend the traditional memorial service at the Allied Cemetery in Souda, which is organized annually by the British Embassy as a tribute to British and Commonwealth soldiers who fought alongside the Greeks in May 1941. During the event, there will be a honorary flyover by aircraft from the 30th Squadron and the Red Arrows of the British Royal Air Force.
Visit to the Naval Museum
On Sunday, May 24th, Princess Anne will visit the Naval Museum at Firka Fortress, where she will be guided through the exhibition dedicated to the Battle of Crete.
Photo source: flashnews.gr
