A Half-Greek Yorkshireman Completes Conscription At Presidential Guard
- by XpatAthens
- Tuesday, 29 January 2019
Twenty-six-year-old Evangelos Marathos Rainey is half American and half Greek, but grew up in Yorkshire and has recently spent nine months as a Presidential Guard in Athens.
Like all members of the Greek Presidential Guard, his role was to watch over the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, the country’s most important memorial that is located in front of the Greek Parliament.
Even though joining the Presidential Guard is a huge honor, not everybody is eligible to join.
To be considered for the Presidential Guard, you must be:
- Male
- At least 6ft 2 in height
- Greek Christian Orthodox
- Have no medical complaints
- Have no visible tattoos
- Caucasian
The Greek Presidential Guard, also known as Evzones have a very technical and unique way of marching. Each of their steps and movements has a symbolic meaning, even down to standing still while on duty. Standing still honours the dead, so the Guards are prohibited to move or talk. The only thing they are allowed to move are their eyes.
Evzon Evangelos Marathos Rainey talks about his experience on the Greek Presidential Guard, and explains the symbolism behind movements, marching, the traditional dress, and even facial hair!
Watch this interesting video to understand what it means to be a member of the Greek Presidential Guard.
To read this article in full, please visit: Forces.net