History
Greece is a nation in Southeast Europe with a long tradition of military defense. In the early 20th century, the country fought in regional conflicts called the Balkan Wars to secure its borders. During World War I, Greece joined the Allied nations in 1917. Greek soldiers fought alongside British and French troops on the Macedonian front, helping defeat the Central Powers in the region.
During World War II, Greece faced great danger when Italian forces invaded in October 1940. The Greek army fought back bravely and pushed the invaders back into Albania. This was one of the first Allied land victories of the war. However, Nazi Germany sent troops to help Italy in 1941, and Greece was occupied for several hard years. Even during the occupation, Greek resistance fighters continued to battle enemy troops across the mountains and cities.
After World War II ended, Greece suffered through a painful civil war between government forces and communist rebels. This conflict made Greece an important battleground in the early Cold War. Greece joined the NATO alliance in 1952 to help protect Western Europe. During the Korean War, Greece sent infantry soldiers and transport planes to fight under the United Nations command. Greece did not send troops to the Vietnam War, but it remained a vital military partner in the Mediterranean throughout the Cold War.
Frequently Asked Questions
Notable Operations
Conflicts
Greece Forces & Equipment
Browse the armed forces, weapons, and vehicles fielded by Greece.
1st Raider-Paratrooper Brigade
This is an elite Greek special forces unit trained to jump from planes and operate in difficult areas.
32nd Marines Brigade
The 32nd Marines Brigade is a highly trained unit in the Greek Army that specializes in amphibious beach landings.
Hellenic Armed Forces
The Hellenic Armed Forces defend Greece. Greece fought bravely against Italy in World War II and joined NATO in 1952.
Combat Medals & Awards
Commemorative Medal for Peacekeeping Missions
A modern service medal awarded to Greek troops who serve in international peacekeeping and humanitarian missions worldwide.
Commemorative Medal for the Greco-Bulgarian War of 1913
This campaign medal commemorated the victory and service of Greek troops during the Second Balkan War.
Commemorative War Medal 1940–1941
A campaign medal honoring soldiers and civilians who fought against the Axis invasion of Greece in 1940 and 1941.
Commemorative War Medal 1941–1945
This campaign medal honored Greek troops who continued fighting Axis forces in North Africa, the Mediterranean, and Europe.
Cross of Valour
The Cross of Valour is the highest military bravery decoration awarded to members of the Greek Armed Forces.
Korean War Commemorative Medal
A campaign medal awarded to Greek expeditionary forces that fought under the United Nations command during the Korean War.
Medal for Outstanding Acts
This award recognizes Greek military personnel who show bravery, initiative, and excellence during dangerous military operations.
Medal of Military Merit
The Medal of Military Merit honors officers for long, faithful service and distinguished leadership in the armed forces.
Victory Medal 1914–1918
Greece's official Allied Victory Medal awarded to personnel who served during the First World War.
War Cross
The War Cross is a premier Greek battlefield decoration awarded for distinguished courage and leadership in wartime.
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