Eastern Macedonia Army Section facts for kids

The Eastern Macedonia Army Section (often called TSAM for short) was a special group of soldiers from the Hellenic Army (the Greek army). It was created during World War II to defend a part of Greece called Eastern Macedonia. This army section bravely faced the first German attacks on Greece during a big battle known as the Battle of the Metaxas Line. After four days of fighting, the soldiers had to surrender on April 9, 1941.

What Was the Eastern Macedonia Army Section?

Before World War II began, Greece was planning how to defend itself. One of the main concerns was a possible attack from Bulgaria in the areas of Macedonia and Western Thrace. To protect these regions, the Greek military decided to create a special army group.

This group was first called the Kavala Army Section. It was based in the city of Kavala. It included several groups of soldiers, like the 6th and 17th Infantry Divisions, and Greece's only Cavalry Division. It also had the IV Army Corps, which included the 7th and 14th Divisions, along with other brigades.

How It Was Formed

The Kavala Army Section was officially put into action after Italy attacked Greece on October 28, 1940. Lieutenant General Markos Drakos was put in charge of this new army group.

Soon after, in early November, its name was changed. It became known as the Eastern Macedonia Army Section. This name better described the large area it was responsible for defending.

Facing the Germans

The Eastern Macedonia Army Section played a very important role in defending Greece. When Germany joined the fight and attacked Greece, this army section was the first to face them. They fought bravely in what became known as the Battle of the Metaxas Line. This battle lasted for four days. Even though they fought hard, the army section was eventually forced to surrender on April 9, 1941.

Who Led the Army Section?

The Eastern Macedonia Army Section had important leaders who guided its soldiers.

• Lieutenant General Markos Drakos was the first commander. He led the army section from October 28, 1940, until February 7, 1941.
• After him, Lieutenant General Konstantinos Bakopoulos took command. He led the army section from February 7, 1941, until it surrendered on April 9, 1941.

The main office, or headquarters, for the army section was first in Serres. Later, on February 8, 1941, it moved to Thessaloniki.