During the summer of 2023, Dimitris Marinelis dedicated his days to the frontline of Europe’s most significant wildfire in northern Greece. In a landscape consumed by flames, he worked tirelessly to protect homes and establish anti-fire zones amid the devastation.
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Like many on his team, Mr. Marinelis has volunteered his time without compensation. He stands among thousands of brave individuals who balance their regular jobs with the demanding task of fighting Greece’s relentless summer wildfires, often dropping everything at a moment’s notice to respond to urgent calls for help. “I’m a businessman,” shared the 54-year-old, who runs a construction company from the serene suburb of Ekali in Athens. “When the phone rings, you stop thinking about yourself and start thinking about others,” he added, highlighting the selflessness that defines their mission.
The Greek government has earmarked approximately €2 billion for purchasing new aircraft and plans to deploy nearly double the number of thermal camera drones to detect fires compared to the previous year. One of these drones will be utilized by Mr. Marinelis’s team. “Unfortunately, we’re waiting for the worst and hoping for the best,” he remarked, reflecting the uncertain nature of wildfire season.
Greece’s firefighting service operates with a blend of permanent staff and seasonal workers but relies heavily on volunteers—an integral part of the nation’s firefighting framework. Disturbing images of weary firefighters in soot-streaked uniforms resting roadside are commonly shared online, accompanied by countless messages of gratitude and encouragement.
However, sustaining these volunteer organizations is often a challenge. George Dertilis, the leader of the Ekali team, expressed the growing need for resources: “Our 60-member team depends on donations for equipment and trucks—one of which has been in service since 1986. Some of our uniforms were generously donated by colleagues in France and Belgium.” He also candidly stated, “There are times we lack basic supplies like hoses.”
In 2021, just a fortnight before a significant fire erupted near Athens, Mr. Dertilis revealed that they struggled to insure all four trucks until private donors came forward. Tragically, when the fire struck, it damaged their hoses, leaving them scrambling for replacements while fighting the blaze.
Over the years, the team has formed close bonds akin to those of family. Yet, it’s the thought of their own loved ones that often reminds them to act judiciously. Mr. Marinelis’s wife, Mariana Pilou—an architect who also volunteers with the team—further sheds light on their precarious balance. The couple has two young daughters and strives to avoid assignments to the same fire. “In a tough situation, when I faced the need to flee, I thought of my kids and reminded myself: don’t act like a hero,” Ms. Pilou reflected, capturing the poignant reality of their choice to serve.
At the heart of this narrative lies a profound commitment to community and a spirit of resilience. As Mr. Marinelis and his fellow volunteers continue to stand guard against the flames, they remind us all that courage often means putting others before oneself.
Edited By Ali Musa
Axadle Times International – Monitoring.
