11 of our dedicated supporters took on the rugged terrain of Crete, walking for four days in September to raise money for the Army Benevolent Fund (ABF).
In the first of four Frontline Walks this autumn, participants trekked the dramatic peaks, coastline trails, and mountain gorges of southwestern Crete, retracing many of the routes taken by Allied forces escaping the German invasion of the island during the Second World War (Operation Mercury).
Operation Mercury was the codename for the German airborne invasion of Crete on 20 May 1941. Overcoming strong resistance from British, Australian, New Zealand, and Greek troops, the German forces ultimately secured the island, but at the cost of heavy casualties among its elite paratroopers.
Setting out from Anapoli, the Frontline Walkers hiked to Aga Roumeli, through the Samaria Gorge and up to the summit of Koulouloú, learning about the events that took place in 1941 along the route.
The final day of the Walk was spent exploring key Second World War sites including the village of Kondomari, and its monument to the victims of the Nazi execution of all male inhabitants in 1941. The team also visited the German Military Cemetery and the Allied War Cemetery at Souda Bay where 1,527 soldiers are laid to rest.
Joining fellow walkers from as far afield as Sydney, Australia, were liveryman Rupert Lyons and his son, Jensen. Rupert said: “It was an enjoyable but tough four days’ trekking and after a ‘brutal’ first day, I am pleased to report that I finished each day with a smile on my face, thanks to the teamwork and companionship shared amongst the group throughout the week.
“Jensen and I are proud to have been part of a team that collectively raised thousands for the Army Benevolent Fund from this Frontline Walk. We feel privileged to have shared this experience with the most wonderful group of people. We are also hugely grateful to Will and everyone at the ABF for organising this trek which will live long in the memory.’’
Will Tower, Regional Director, Southeast, Army Benevolent Fund, who led the Walk, said:
“A huge thank you to all our Frontline Walk participants who have raised many thousands of pounds for the Army Benevolent Fund, the Army’s national charity. Ably led by local guide, Christoforos of the Cretan Mountain Leaders Association and Tom of Tribal Tracks, this was an exciting, fun and challenging trek. It was my pleasure to lead this group, commemorating the bravery of WW2 escapees whilst supporting the veterans and soldiers of today.”
Frontline Walk Italy – join us in 2026
Next year, we will be moving from Crete to Italy for another challenging and rewarding walk in the footsteps of those who fought over 80 years ago.
The Italy Frontline Walk traces the historic battles of the Second World War, following the route taken by Allied forces during the Italian campaign. The trek goes from the Salerno beaches up to Monte Cassino, and finishes in Naples, where we will have time to reflect on the courage and sacrifice of those who fought in the Italian Campaign.