On Tuesday, 14 August 2018, a memorial service was held in the Parachutist School in Aspropyrgos, Attica, in memory of Lieutenant Colonel John Phillips, US Army, who was killed upon landing on the Drop Zone of Tatoi on 14 August 1955.

John Phillips, a very experienced parachutist with 210 jumps (of which 3 combat jumps in WWII and Korean War operations), was in charge of a small team training the 1st Parachutist Training Series of the Hellenic Army's Parachutist School, which consisted of 32 volunteers, 15 Officers, 9 NCOs, and 8 raiders (Enlisted Soldiers).

#ΕλληνικόςΣτρατός, #HellenicArmy, #ΕίμαστεΥπερήφανοι, #WeAreProud, #Μεριμνούμε, #WeCare

On Monday, 13 August 2018, the Chief of Hellenic Army General Staff, Lieutenant General Alkiviadis Stefanis, visited the National Guard Battalion of Ermoupoli, Syros, which is headquartered in the "LOHAGOU (PZ) APOSTOLOU ZAFIRI" Camp.
After being briefed, the Chief addressed all Camp personnel (career and reserve Officers and Soldiers, as well as National Guardsmen):
- stressing the Army's dual contribution in the areas of both deterrence and social contribution.
- congratulating all personnel for their professionalism and high sense of duty, laying particular emphasis on the dynamism of the National Guard and Reserve institutions, deeming them important Army force multipliers.
After his visit to the island's military facilities, the Chief met with his Eminence, the Metropolitan of Syros, Tinos, Andros, Kea, Milos, and Mykonos, Mr. Dorotheos, who welcomed him, thanked him for his contribution, and wished him all success in his duties.