Athens, 17 May 2006

Ms. Dora Bakoyannis: Ambassador, Honorary Council, Mayor, Honourable friends, Ι would like to welcome you to Greece. To warmly welcome the Mayor of Wellington, Ms. Kerry Prendergast, the veterans, and their families, on this “pilgrimage to Crete”.

The Battle of Crete is one of profound historical importance. A tale of courage and heroism; a tale of a great struggle for freedom and democracy.

Sixty-five years have passed, since you bravely fought alongside the people of Crete. For twelve long and arduous days, New Zealanders, British, Australian and Greek troops – greatly helped by Cretan civilians – fought to repel an airborne assault of a scale never seen before.

Dear friends,

Each year, Crete and the whole of Greece honour you, and others like you, who fought for freedom. Whether you are Greeks, New Zealanders, British or Australians is of little importance. What we honour and value is the courage, dedication, and sense of solidarity that was demonstrated.

Personally, as a proud daughter of a great man who at a very young age led the resistance against the Nazis in Chania   I feel extremely moved by your presence here today.

Your sacrifices earned you the love, gratitude, and esteem of an entire nation.

Despite the distance that separates Crete and New Zealand, the ties of friendship and of solidarity are as potent today as the courage and persistence displayed by all of you 65 years ago.

You asked for nothing in return for your sacrifices. However, I assure you that your sacrifices and contribution to the course of history are not, and will not be, forgotten.

I am sure that this pilgrimage will awaken some memories better left to rest. I am also sure, however, that your visit to Crete, this time under very different circumstances - will be both enriching and fulfilling. It will help to soothe and to heal. I hope that by the end of your pilgrimage, you will leave with only memories of kindness.

My most warm welcome.