Resolution introduced in US Congress to recognize Greek ‘Ochi’ Day

Greek-American congressmen and Hellenic Caucus members Chris Pappas, John Sarbanes and Gus Bilirakis (FL-12), introduced a resolution earlier this week calling for October 28 to be recognized as "Ochi" Day in the United States, in commemoration of Greece's entry into World War II in 1940 after refusing to surrender to the Axis forces.

A national holiday in Greece, "Ochi" or "No" Day marks prime minister Ioannis Metaxas' response to an Italian ultimatum demanding that Axis forces be allowed to occupy strategic locations in the country.

"On October 28, 1940 our Greek allies demonstrated unprecedented spirit and courage, changing the trajectory of history," Pappas said in a press release announcing the October 22 introduction of the resolution. "Decades later we continue to celebrate Greece's spirited refusal to bow to the Axis powers and the fascist values they espoused...