Greece is mourning the loss of a 53-year-old coast guard officer who died while on duty during extreme weather conditions. Family members, friends, and colleagues gathered to bid a final farewell at a funeral service held in a church in southern Greece, following his death at sea earlier this week.

(ΒΑΣΙΛΗΣ ΠΑΠΑΔΟΠΟΥΛΟΣ/EUROKINISSI)

 (ΒΑΣΙΛΗΣ ΠΑΠΑΔΟΠΟΥΛΟΣ/EUROKINISSI)

The officer, a lieutenant in the Hellenic Coast Guard, lost his life on January 21 while carrying out his duties in rough seas, after being swept away by powerful waters during a storm. His death has prompted widespread expressions of grief and respect within Greece’s maritime and political communities.

Senior government and regional officials attended the funeral, including the Minister of Maritime Affairs, the head of the Coast Guard, and local authorities, underscoring the national recognition of his service and sacrifice.

(ΒΑΣΙΛΗΣ ΠΑΠΑΔΟΠΟΥΛΟΣ/EUROKINISSI)

State Support for His Family

Speaking after the ceremony, the maritime affairs minister said the country had lost a public servant who gave his life in the line of duty. He confirmed that the Greek Parliament will provide long-term support for the officer’s minor son, describing the decision as a symbolic “adoption” aimed at ensuring the child’s future care and assistance.

“The state will stand by his family,” the minister said, emphasizing that members of the coast guard often serve under high-risk conditions in the interest of public safety.