Thermopylae: A Battlefield of Legends and Saboteurs
Strategic Importance of Thermopylae
Thermopylae, a narrow pass located above Greece’s Malian Gulf, has played a pivotal role in military history. Its strategic importance lies in its ability to control access to critical Mediterranean ports and the rich cities of Greece.
Ancient Battle of Thermopylae
In 480 B.C.E., King Leonidas and his legendary band of 300 Spartans made their last stand at Thermopylae against the invading Persian army. Despite being outnumbered, the Spartans held off the Persians for several days, using the unique terrain of Thermopylae to their advantage.
World War II Sabotage Mission
Nearly 2,500 years later, Thermopylae once again became the stage for a daring military operation. In 1943, British Special Operations Executive saboteurs led by Brigadier Eddie Myers parachuted into Axis-held Greece with the mission of disrupting enemy supply lines.
Target: Asopos Viaduct
The saboteurs’ primary target was the Asopos Viaduct, a vital railway bridge that carried train tracks across a deep gorge. The bridge was heavily guarded by German soldiers, making a direct assault impossible.
Descending the Asopos Gorge
Recognizing that stealth was crucial, the saboteurs planned to descend the treacherous Asopos Gorge, a narrow and icy ravine that led to the back door of the viaduct. The gorge was so dangerous that it was considered “practically speaking, impossible” to descend.
Overcoming Challenges
Despite the formidable challenges, the saboteurs forged ahead. They waded through freezing water, rappelled down waterfalls, and constructed makeshift rope bridges. Their determination and resilience allowed them to overcome the seemingly insurmountable obstacles.
Preparing for Demolition
Once the saboteurs reached the bottom of the gorge, they faced the task of moving explosives and other supplies into position. They used rope-rigging skills to keep the explosives dry and prepared them for use.
Final Strike
On June 19, 1943, the saboteurs crept up from the gorge and began placing the explosives on the bridge’s main supports. Working under cover of darkness, they successfully set charges on four pillars and added time fuses to ensure detonation.
Success and Impact
At midnight, the time fuses were crushed, giving the saboteurs 90 minutes to retreat to a safe distance. The explosives detonated with a deafening roar, collapsing the central arch of the viaduct into the gorge.
The destruction of the Asopos Viaduct significantly disrupted the Axis supply lines and delayed the reopening of the railway for four months. This success played a crucial role in the Allied invasion of Sicily and the eventual liberation of Europe.
Legacy of Thermopylae
Thermopylae has witnessed countless battles throughout history, earning its reputation as a killing ground. The legendary stand of Leonidas and the daring sabotage mission of Eddie Myers and his team are testaments to the strategic importance of this narrow pass and the indomitable spirit of those who have fought there.