“WE SHALL WIN”

Wairarapa Times-Age, 14 April 1941, Page 5

“WE SHALL WIN”

CONFIDENT DECLARATION MADE BY GREEK MINISTER IN LONDON. FEROCIOUS BATTLE IMMINENT. (By Telegraph—Press Association—Copyright) LONDON, April 12. The Greek Mirtister to London, M. Nicloudis, in a broadcast, said: “One of the most ferocious battles in history will be fought within a few hours, if it has not already started, between the Italian and German and the British and Greek forces. In spite of the former’s numerical superiority in men and materials, and the temporary loss of Salonika and East Macedonia and Thrace, we shall win. “It was natural that Greece in the first critical stage of the GermanGreek conflict found herself in a state of inferiority, but the rest is assured and victory is guaranteed. Our forces are intact and victorious everywhere in the Epirus and Albania, and we have the inexhaustible resources of the British Empire and the United States.” EXAGGERATED NAZI CLAIM. It is authoritatively stated in London that foreign announcements that Greek forces exceeding 80,000 have capitulated east of the Vardar River, are most exaggerated, and have been given for tentative reasons. The Greek forces in the area were much smaller than this, and thousands have been able to withdraw and reach free Greek territory. The Greeks capitulated only because they were suddenly isolated through the withdrawal of the Yugoslavs.

“Germany’s expected early successes cannot discourage us,” declared the Yugoslav Premier. General Simonvitch, in a broadcast from his headquarters “somewhere in Yugoslavia.” The present situation, he said, was difficult. but Yugoslavia would fight or, to victory. “Our troops arc already concentrating in the main battle lines to check the enemy’s advance.” he added.

King George of Greece issued a proclamation in Athens today praising the people’s loyalty, courage and faith in the future. It added: “My people will prove worthy of my army. Lot the rear live up to the standard of the front. With such determination we shall, be able to resist the enemy's onslaught. thus performing our supreme duty to the country.