Ordnance Corps
The Hellenic Army, up until 1945, did not have a separate body for the management of materials-spare parts and ammunition. Logistics were conducted for provision of support throughout the spectrum of related activities.
After the end of WWII, with the help of the British, the Army organisation commenced, based on the British system. The experiences from WWII demonstrated the necessity for organisation and the development of separate corps for the servicing of the Army’s Logistics requirements.
In early 1945, HAGS/Ordnance Directorate (C4) was established, falling under the C’ Branch of HAGS. In March of the same year, the first Unit of the Ordnance Corps was established, named 651 Ordnance Base Depot, which in 1998 was renamed to 651 Ordnance Brigade.
The first representation of the Ordnance Corps in a Formation was realised in April 1945, with the establishment of the corresponding C4 Office of the 2nd Division and then of the 3rd, 21st, 22nd Brigades and other Formations. Since then, Units’ resupply had been conducted by 651 Ordnance Base Depot, through the mediation of the corresponding Ordnance/C4 Offices.
Up until June 1947, the Units were developed and operated based on the British logistics system. Since June 1947, the British mission was succeeded by the US one, which, based on the Truman Doctrine, started supplying the Hellenic Army with all the necessary materials up until 1973. From 1973 up until today, the Army’s supply is conducted through various sources with budgetary credits.
The emblem of Ordnance Corps
The emblem of the Corps consists of a bow and a quiver with arrows. The quiver symbolises the trainee and the arrows symbolise the knowledge provided to them by the Ordnance Training Centre. The maxim of the Corps is “Αρχή ήμισυ του παντός” (well begun is half done), preserved throughout history by Aristotle and Diogenes Laertius.
The colours of the Ordnance Corps are blue-red-blue. The insignia of the Corps consist of six spears placed crosswise (three on the right and three on the left), with a helmet at the centre, all of which are framed by a wreath of laurels.
Our Mission
The mission of the Ordnance Corps is the supply of Units with materials, supplies and clothing.
Characteristics
By monitoring the level of stocks and by planning the materials’ supply, the gathering of information on the existing and under development materiel under the competency of Ordnance, it inspects the proper implementation of Logistics with regards to Army Ordnance.