February 13th, 1949 – The Battle of Florina
This Battle occurred within the overall context of the Communist Insurgency of Greece (1946-49), otherwise known as the “Greek Civil War”.
Taking place between 11-13 February, it was a last ditch attempt by the communist guerrillas to capture and occupy the town of Florina, which was being held by the Greek Army.
The communists attached great importance to the capture and occupation of Florina, hoping to establish a base there and become its pseudo capital. Florina’s geographic location of being close to both the borders of Albania and Yugoslavia – their key backers and suppliers – was seen to be a key long-term advantage for them.
The Greek Army meanwhile was already stationed there and firmly entrenched in Florina and ready to defend it, this defence was bolstered with further re-enforcements from Kastoria and Edessa.
The crushing defeat inflicted by the Greek Army on the communists, was the beginning of the end of the entire insurgency.
Due to their heavy losses, the communists would never recover. Leading to ultimate victory for the Greek Army by August 1949.
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