Serving the Greek Army

Serving the Greek Army

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	Although I did not serve in any special forces, the Greek Army was an adventure for me. When I returned to Greece in 2002, I was supposed to serve only 6 months but that did not happen. 12 months was the price most soldiers do but I was in for a surprise. I was "chosen" to become a reserve officer with a price of 17 months. I was really honored to be part of that team. Most of the guys were serious and we were close in age but the extra 5 months was not a good incentive for me. So I got out of it. Good experience though! The story begins on the 26 of May, 2003 in Lamia. I stayed there for about 3 months where I got my basic training as a soldier and most of the training as a reserve officer. The base has good facilities but during the summer it gets very hot. On your short breaks, you can have coffee at the city which is only 5 minutes away. Down the narrow roads you will also find taverns with great food!
Officer training (Lamia)

	The next stop was the island of Rhodes. Although the base was away from the city, Rhodes is very civilized and calm place to be. It has people all year long and the locals are very friendly. The island has an elegant taste that reminds you of Europe. There I was working at the 1st office, a position that deals with tons of paperwork and data entry. The position is among the most responsible ones since military documents are highly classified and the majority of them has deadlines. On my days off, I visited downtown Rhodes, the old city, Lindos city, Faliraki beach, and the rest of the island since I was lucky enough to have my motorcycle there. I urge everyone who is based there to stay as long as possible cause even during the winter the island is alive. Can you imagine the summer?
At Rhodes island

	The last few months I served in Menidi, a base close to the Parnitha mountain. The base is huge (when you have to walk it) but the view is rewarding especially at night. I was able to see Athens from my bed! At this base, I was trained as a logistics specialist and I was responsible for thousands of different parts that the army is using throughout the country. Overall, I have to admit that at the beginning I was not so excited joining the army but now, looking back, I see that I got great experience and great friends. If I had to do again, YES I would do it in a heartbeat! But this time as a reserve officer.
On duty (Parnitha)

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