October 28th The Day When Greece Said No : The “Όχι” day

Ohi Day, celebrated on October 28th, is a national holiday in Greece that commemorates the Greek resistance to Axis forces during World War II. The holiday gets its name from the Greek word “Όχι” (Ohi), meaning "No," which was the response of Greek Prime Minister Ioannis Metaxas to an ultimatum from Italian dictator Benito Mussolini on October 28, 1940.

The Significance of "Ohi" (No)
In the early hours of October 28, 1940, Mussolini sent an ultimatum demanding that Greece allow Axis forces to occupy strategic locations in Greece, essentially surrendering control. Prime Minister Metaxas rejected the ultimatum with the simple but resolute response, "Ohi," or "No." This decision marked Greece’s entry into World War II on the Allied side and began the Greco-Italian War.

The Impact on WWII
The Greek resistance to Italy was unexpected and significant:

Military Success: Greek forces not only resisted the invasion but pushed the Italian forces back into Albania.
Morale Booster: Greece's defiance served as a morale boost to Allied forces and inspired resistance across Europe.
Delay of German Plans: The prolonged conflict forced Germany to intervene, delaying their planned invasion of the Soviet Union, which some historians argue contributed to the Axis defeat.
Celebrations of Ohi Day
Ohi Day is observed with parades, patriotic speeches, and events throughout Greece and by Greek communities worldwide. Highlights of the celebration include:

Military and School Parades: Students, veterans, and military personnel participate in parades in towns and cities across Greece.
Flag Raising: The Greek flag is prominently displayed, and people often decorate their homes with the flag.
Religious Services: Special church services honor those who fought and sacrificed for Greece's freedom.
Patriotic Music and Dance: Traditional Greek music and dances are performed, fostering a strong sense of national pride.
Ohi Day remains a powerful symbol of Greek courage, resilience, and the enduring spirit of resistance against oppression. #Όχι #history