Kasselakis presents himself for military service
Main opposition SYRIZA leader Stefanos Kasselakis has presented himself for military service at an artillery training center in Thiva, in Viotia, where he is expected to serve for 15 days.
“It is an honor to be here to serve my homeland, the country I love, as an expatriate who has returned to contribute to his country,” Kasselakis said upon arriving at the base, accompanied by his father.
“I am proud of my country, but not of everything that is happening in my country,” he added.
The 35-year-old politician is expected to serve for a maximum of 20 days, during which he will receive basic military training.
Kasselakis had been exempt from military service until now because he lived in the United States since the age of 14.
Under the law, citizens over the age of 33 who present for military service have the option to serve only 20 days – instead of the full term of 12 months – and can buy off the rest of their term for €810 euros per month.
Kasselakis will have his oath taking ceremony on March 29 and then he will get the five days special leave usually granted to new soldiers, according to party officials. He will then return to the army on April 5 to be officially released.
