Chios Historical Library preserves WWII infantry flag fragment

The Korais Public Central Historical Library of Chios is housing an invaluable national relic: an authentic fragment of the war flag belonging to the 23rd Infantry Regiment of Chios. The artifact was rescued from German occupiers during the invasion in April 1941.

Accompanying the flag is a handwritten report-letter by Chian soldier Ioannis Nik. Maris, dated May 31, 1950. The document provides a detailed account of the regiment's final dramatic days, specifically describing how Maris was appointed commander of the Flag Rescue Group on April 12, 1941, during the retreat through Lesnititsa and Verdovas.

The 23rd Infantry Regiment was composed of approximately 1,000 men who mobilized from Chios following Greece's entry into the war on October 28, 1940. Despite limited equipment, the regiment participated in several successful operations to capture enemy heights before the German invasion.