A display by an F-16 fighter jet from the Zeus demonstration team over Thessaloniki brought the military parade marking Greece’s 28th of October national anniversary to a close on Wednesday.

“One word changes history. And for the Greeks, that word is ‘Ochi’ – ‘No’. Today, we honour those who stood tall. We remember that freedom is never given; it must be won. Happy national anniversary, Greece,” said F-16 pilot Squadron Leader Christos-Paris Charitos.

The pilot spoke over the radio with President of the Hellenic Republic Constantine Tassoulas during the display.
“Squadron Leader, at this moment, today, on October 28, both you and our Armed Forces have reaffirmed that, for Greece, the following will always hold true: the greatness of nations is not measured in acres. Greatness is measured by the steel and blood of the soul,” Tassoulas said.

He congratulated the pilot on the display, adding: “Happy national anniversary, and congratulations on today’s performance, which has made us all proud.”