RE: The Harrowing Account of the American Evacuation in Smyrna

This is a very interesting story. My paternal grandfather’s brother was a sailor in the Greek Royal Navy in 1922 trying to rescue the victims of the Turkish onslaught.

My two grandfathers were conscripted in the Greek Army in 1913, they came from the island of Kythera.

Paternal grandfather managed to get a discharge in 1921. He then quickly headed for Australia.

Meanwhile maternal grandfather continued until his discharge in 1923 following the Treaty of Lausanne.

My paternal grandmother went from Kythera to Smyrna to get a job. Sadly her employer, a Turk, assaulted her and as a result she lost an eye.

Life was sure tough in those days.

Please keep up the good work. I love your stories.

Kindest regards,

Victor Cominos
Queensland, Australia