Perth's Kings Park will unveil Australia's first dedicated Battle of Crete memorial on May 11th, 2024.
Marking a significant moment in Australian and Greek war history, the much-anticipated Battle of Crete Memorial nears completion in Perth. Spearheaded by the state's Greek Australian RSL, the unveiling ceremony on May 11th, 2024, will be graced by distinguished guests, including Archbishop Makarios and Mr. Richard Sandover, whose uncle participated in the battle.
A First of Its Kind:
This memorial is the first in Australia solely dedicated to the Battle of Crete. Years of planning, fundraising, and collaboration culminated in this project, garnering support from the broader community. Bill Evangel, President of the RSL branch and Committee Chairperson shared the initiative's origin: "We felt this battle deserved wider recognition," aiming to educate the public about its significance.
Honouring Sacrifice and Courage:
The memorial's design, crafted by artists Joan and Charlie Smith, carries powerful symbolism. A "broken column," a recurring motif representing war's devastation, serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifice and courage displayed by both Australian and Greek soldiers defending liberty during the battle.
Western Australian Significance:
The campaign in Crete holds particular importance for Western Australians with ANZAC connections, as HMAS Perth and the City of Perth 2/11th Battalion were directly involved. At 105, Arthur Leggett OAM, one of the two remaining Battle of Crete survivors, embodies the living memory of this historical event.
Community Collaboration and Support:
The project received strong backing from various entities, including federal and state governments, Lotterywest, private donors, the Greek community, the Greek Consul, the City of Perth, St Andrew's Grammar, and industry groups. The December sod-turning ceremony marked a pivotal moment, honouring Leggett with the opportunity to witness the future memorial site.
Completion and Unveiling:
As construction advances, the memorial is set for completion by late April/early May 2024. The May 11th unveiling ceremony promises to be a momentous occasion commemorating the bravery and sacrifice of those who fought in the Battle of Crete.
Beyond the Memorial:
This initiative transcends the physical structure, serving as an educational tool and a reminder of the importance of remembering and honouring wartime sacrifices. With its completion, the Battle of Crete Memorial is a powerful symbol of historical appreciation and cross-cultural connection.
