The family of Reg Saunders, the only native Australian soldier who fought in the Battle of Crete, was honored this week by Victoria’s state government.
Saunders was the first aborigine commissioned as an officer in the Australian army. He fought in Libya and then Greece. Forced into retreat in Greece, his unit was put ashore on the island of Crete after its ship was destroyed. When Crete was invaded in May 1941, he took part in the bloody bayonet charge known as the Battle of 42nd Street.
In the presence of Victoria’s Premier, Ted Baillieu, the Victorian Minister for Local Government and for Aboriginal Affairs, Jeanette Powell, and about 600 people mainly natives, special distinctions were awarded to 15 aborigines.
His family wanted on the very day of his contribution’s recognition Greek Cretans to also attend the event, and invited the Deputy of the Pancretan Association, John Reraki, and former president, Antonis Tsourdalakis.
The Pancretan Association in support of Saunders monument in Chania, is organizing a concert with the participation of Giorgos Ksilouris on Dec.14, which will be held at BMW Edge (Federation Square) in Melbourne.
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