Dr. Panos Laskaridis, Rear Admiral of the Hellenic Navy (ret.) was awarded the Medal of the Grand Cross of the Order of Honour, on Monday 27 May 2024, by the President of the Republic, Katerina Sakellaropoulou, at a ceremony held at the Presidential Palace.
The award of the Medal to the Greek shipowner and Rear Admiral in honor of the Hellenic Navy was made for his contribution to the Homeland and especially for his contribution to the significant strengthening of the Hellenic Armed Forces, prominent among other donations, the concession to the Hellenic Navy and the full operational integration into the Fleet of four large warships supporting strike units and special missions.
The President of the Republic in its address stated:
“Mr. Admiral,
I award you the medal of the Grand Cross of the Order of Honour in recognition of your long and multifaceted contribution to the country. Both in the field of defence, which you support with special generosity, and in the field of culture, with the special actions of the Aikaterini Laskaridis Foundation, which you chair, for the promotion of Greek letters, historical knowledge, naval research, the promotion of cultural heritage, the connection of tradition with innovation. At the same time, we honor you for the care you show towards the community, through your active participation in the community.
Special mention, however, is due to your continuous contribution to our Navy, one of the main pillars of our national strength. Following the example of the great benefactors who supported our nation in critical periods of our history, you are one of the fervent patriots who contribute to the security of the homeland by strengthening the deterrent capacity of our Navy. This medal is the expression of the State’s gratitude for your valuable contribution to the common good.”
On his part, Rear Admiral Panos Laskaridis thanked the President for the highest honor bestowed on him by awarding him the Grand Cross of the Order of Honor, noting that “Selfless contribution to the Homeland is the highest duty of every Greek. We all owe it to the Fatherland. Each offers according to its capabilities. My inclination and love for the Sea have led me to help mainly the Navy and the Coast Guard and I must state that the country has rewarded me for this to the highest degree”.
The simple ceremony was attended by the President of the Hellenic Parliament, the Minister of National Defence, the Chief of the General Staff of the Armed Forces, the Chief of the Hellenic Navy General Staff, the family of the honored person and distinguished guests.