December 6, 1943: A battle-scarred Greek destroyer, the "Adrias," entered the harbour of Alexandria, Egypt. Though battered and bearing the loss of 21 crew members and injuries to 30 others, its arrival was a testament to the resilience of the Allied forces in the face of relentless danger.
Just weeks prior, on October 22nd, "Adrias" had struck a German mine off the coast of Kalymnos, Greece. The devastating explosion ripped through the ship's bow, leaving a gaping wound and claiming precious lives.
This tragedy echoed the sombre fate of the British destroyer "Hurworth," which also succumbed to a mine strike on the same day. With 133 men lost, the sinking of "Hurworth" stood as a stark reminder of the deadly presence of these maritime bombs throughout the Mediterranean.
Despite the immense damage, the remaining crew of "Adrias" refused to surrender. They displayed remarkable courage and determination, navigating the crippled ship for over 700 miles to reach Alexandria. Their arrival marked the completion of a perilous journey and a symbol of Allied resolve in a war marked by hardship and sacrifice.
The story of "Adrias" is a testament to the bravery and unwavering spirit of those who fought on the frontlines of the Mediterranean conflict. Though heavily scarred, their resilience in the face of tragedy inspired many and stands as a reminder of the sacrifices made for freedom during World War II.
