Hellenic Volunteers in the Spanish Civil War - fragments of a complte list

Volunteers are listed below with surname first and brief notes. In some cases the names given are false or non-de plumes, due to concern about possible repercussions at home or an eye to the future when they might return to their native countries. In some cases the men had escaped from prison camps in Greece and as such secrecy of identity was ineluctable.

Aivalis Emmanouil - From Leon in France he was injured at the Battle of Jarama.
Aivatzis Panayiotis - A Greek American volunteer, whose pseudonym was Marios. Prior to going to Spain he lived in France (although his place of descent was Asia Minor) and was a Hellenic community leader. He was an active member of the Communist Party of France from an early age and other workers’ organisations. Arriving early in Spain, he served as an officer having responsibility for Greeks in a company of the Dombrowski Battalion.. Having fought in a number of battles, Panayiotis Aivatzis sustained an injury to his hand that left him crippled. Returning to France in 1938, meant a new period of political activity assisting the wounded and escapees from Spain (especially those of Greek origin) and supporting those exiled and attacked by the Metaxas regime in Greece. His involvement included resistance to German occupation (in the French resistance) and the promotion of democracy in his home country - he helped create the Democratic Union of Greeks living in France. Eventually, the French government expelled him and he died a political refugee in Budapest in 1977. Panayiotis Aivatzis published his recollections of the Spanish Civil War in the magazine Aegi.
Amaoutis Hercules M. - Having arrived on the SS Georgic from the United States of America, Hercules Amaoutis, aged 30 served as an infantry soldier in the Lincoln Washington Brigade: A peloton (squad) leader in the 2nd Company of the Lincoln Washington Brigade. A sailor by trade he survived the Spanish Civil War, and later died in the Soviet Union. He was wounded in Spain.
Ampatielos Spyros - Killed in his first action 30 March 1937 at Guadalajara, aged 27. From New York City where he was employed in a food goods factory to fund his university studies, he arrived on the SS Paris 17 February 1937. A member of the Communist Party of the United States from 1934 and a political activist, he served in the Lincoln Washington Brigade as an infantry soldier. Wounded in his first battle he subsequently died. Originally from the island of Keffalonia, he left for America at age 14. A student of architect he volunteered for Spain before graduating.
Anagnostopoulos George - Arrived on the SS Paris from the United States, reacing Albacete 17 February 1937. A Communist Party member (joined 1932), aged 43, he served as an infantry soldier in the Lincoln Washington Brigade. Employed in the food industry in the United States he brought 6 years military experience to Spain. Fought at Jarama.
Andreoy I. - No information.
Angelis Aggelos - Arrived on the SS Paris, 17 February 1937, from the United States of America where he worked as a cook. A member of the Communist Party from 1934, aged 40, and originally from Paros, he served as an infantry soldier within the Lincoln Washington Battalion. In the United States he was a member of the Spartacus organisation of New York City. He was captured, imprisoned and later released from Saint Agaro prison of war camp.
Arabazoglou Manolis - No information.
Argatis - A seaman whose real name is unknown as he used Argatis as a pseudonym.
Argirakis Mathios (Chis Maisanes/ Abatteos A) - Aged 36 from Ohio (Candon) in the United States where he was a steel-worker (originally from Athens in Greece and born 15 October 1898) arrived at Albacete 11 February 1937, having left New York 26 January 1937 on the SS Champlain. He served as a soldier in the Lincoln Washington Brigade. Mathios Argirakis was born on the island of Kios, Greece. In Spain he was known as Chris Maisanes. Taken prisoner by the Nationalists at Gandesa between 30 March and 14 April 1938, placed in San Pedro. He was released 22 April 1939 along with many other exchanged Americans. He died in 1990. Worked in Spain not in the front-line but rather as a mechanic.
Argitis Louis Elias - A sub-lieutenant who was killed in action 13 October 1937 at Fuentes de Ebro (or possibly Teruel) fighting at the head of his company - 1st Company Lincoln-Washington Battalion. He had served with the Lincoln Battalion after arriving from the United States on the SS Normandy 6 January 1937. Injured at Belchite and encouraged to go home to America, this he refused and returned to the front and fought in many more battles. Originally from Spetsis he had been wounded in the foot and head at the battle of Jarama. Despite his wounds after treatment he returned to the front to fight. Stephanos Tsermenkes describes Elias Argitis as one of he bravest and most distinguished of the Hellenic volunteers. He was promoted and reached the rank of sub-lieutenant. A truck driver and mechanic by trade he joined the Communist Party of America in 1935. Involved in the workers union of Brooklyn, New York and a member of Greek American Workers Educational Committee in which he held a leadership position. An ardent anti-fascist without previous military experience. Also fought with the 16th Regiment of the Republican Army, and the political commissar of this regiment sent a letter back to the Greek Workers in the US about the death of Elias Argitis commending him as a role model.
Arkas Manolis (Emmanuel) - Aged 39, he lived in New York City (but was originally of Naousa in the island of Paros) and arrived on the SS Paris 17 February 1937. He served as a soldier with an American Battalion, his unit being the Auto Park/Transport Section and was repatriated in December 1938 to New York City. In New York, Manolis Arkas worked with the educational organisation Protoporos. He described himself as an Anti-Fascist and was a mechanic by trade. Member of the Educational Trust of the Vanguard of Brooklyn
Arnaoutis Petros (Protagoras) - From Mani in Greece. Fought in battles on the Eastern Front.
Athamides P. - No information. Possibly Nicos Avramidis.
Athanasioy Michaelis - No information.
Athanasioy Nicos - No information.
Athanasopoulos Georgios - Recorded as killed in Spain.
Athanasopoulos Giorgos - Killed at Jarama.
Atsiknoydis Stergios - From the island of Rhodes.
Avramidis Nicos - A seaman served in the Dimitrov Battalion and in the Lincoln-Washington Battalion. In the International Brigades, Nicos Avramides held a position as an officer with responsibility for training and as a member of the Brigade Staff. Wounded whilst serving in Spain. He is mentioned in the Volunteer for Liberty of July 1944. “International Brigaders are certainly playing their part in the Greek Seamen’s Union. Pales is treasurer of the Union in Cardiff. Karagiannis was secretary of the Union in Egypt until he was jailed by the Tsouderos Government, before the recent disturbances amongst the Greek forces. His place was taken by Abraamides who fought in the Dimitrov Battalion.” He died in the Soviet Union. An Adamidis P is mentioned in the Volunteer for Liberty Number 10, 3 February 1941, “Greek Seamen Strike. Among the Greek seamen who are on strike in this country against pay cuts are two Brigaders – Comrades Karagiannis and Adamides. We have sent a letter of protest against their arrest and demanding their release to the Greek Minister and to the Home Office.” From Caucasus in Russia. After the Spanish Civil War he was involved in the KKE and then ended up in exile in Tashkent in Soviet Union.
Binakis Andrew - Aged 36, he served as a soldier with the Lincoln Washington Battalion. A mason by trade this anti-fascist came to Spain with two years previous military experience.
Bouzos, Esifon B. - Arrived on the SS President Roosevelt and served in the Lincoln Washington Battalion.
Brantis Alexander - Arrived in 1938. He fought with an American Battalion.
Caraboglia Savas - Killed in action March-April 1938 at Gandesa. He had served as an infantry soldier with the Abraham Lincoln Battalion after arriving on the SS Aquitania.
Chalepis Costas - Aged 47 from New York City he arrived on the SS Paris. A member of the Communist Party and a baker by trade he served as an infantry soldier with an American battalion. From Samos he was a member of the Spartacus Brotherhood of New York. Fought in Eastern Front. At Caspe, March 1938 he was injured.
Chatzilaou Giannis (Ioannis) - Greek volunteer from New York who served in the Lincoln Battalion. Originally of Alikarnasos of Asia Minor, he went to America at a young age from Mikros and was involved with progressive political activity. Early 1937, he travelled to Spain alongside the Pappas brothers Nicos and Philip and many other Greeks. With the Americans he fought in several battles, returning to Greece at the end of hostilities. From February 1937, served at Jarama and on the Eastern Front until August of 1938. At home he continued the struggle for democracy and against fascism dying in 1969 in Athens. Known affectionately amongst the youth organisations as Mr. John. Before the Greek dictatorship he was involved with the Peace Union of Bertrand Russell.
Chrisoulakis Nicos - A Greek American volunteer, from Crete.
Christoforou George - Killed in action aged 30 in April of 1938 at Gandesa. A seaman by profession he served with the Abraham Lincoln Battalion.
Christou Grigoris - No information.
Chortakis - No information.
Cohen Ernsto - A Greek of Jewish faith. Dimitrios Palaiologopoulos mentions that two Greeks of Jews from the University of Alamaglkas (Department of Mathematicians) fought in Spain, but does not state their names. Ernst Cohen appears on the list of Jewish volunteers produced by Martin Sugarman. He is found on a list of Non-British Republican prisoners of war still held at Miranda de Ebro concentration camp as late as 1941. Eventually repatriated to Britain, records show a London address: 7 Kingsley Mansions, Queens Club Gardens, W.14. A list of prisoners entering the San Pedro concentration camp on 8 April 1938 includes Ernesto Cohen age 38 from Salonica (Thessaloniki).
Conomos Nicholas - Arrived on the SS Lancastria. He fought as a soldier with an American battalion and was injured (paralysed). He was 43 years of age in March 1938. After the war he spent some time in Bellevue Hospital, New York City. Possibly Megaloikonomou Nicholas.
Constantinou Christos - A Greek from America. Possibly Costas Samaras.
Costa Michael - Aged 26 from Rochester, New York. He left for Spain in 1937 and served with an American Battalion. He is mentioned in When Arms Fought in Spain, Sunday Democrat and Chronicle: “Another Rochester man who joined the fight was Michael Costa, a 24-year old labourer who drove an ambulance.”
Covadias Christos - Killed in action in April 1938 at Gandesa, his name appearing on the list of those missing in action April 1938. He had served with the Lincoln Washington Battalion.
Covatsis Constantine - Served with Lincoln Washington Brigade. He was killed in action March 1938 at Batea.
Crithean S. - No information.
Dames James A. - A Greek Canadian from Montreal employed prior to the civil war as a salesman. Born 12 December 1896, he served in the Abraham Lincoln Battalion - arrived 15 January 1937. Joined Communist Party of Canada in 1934. Wounded in action 17 February 1937 (probably at Jarama); prisoner of war 3 April 1938 at Gandesa.
Deligiannis Anagnostis - A Greek American volunteer (pseudonym Vorias Siganos/ Giannos) who survived the war. He was a Lieutenant with a leadership role (second-in-command) in the Greek Company of the Dimitrov Battalion. A cadre of KKE and secretary of ‘Tobacco Workers’ Federation of Greece.’ Tobacco worker. Born in Thrace. Member of Communist Party of Kavvala. Secretary Tobacco Workers’ Union. Escaped 1936 from Ai- Strati and exiled in the Soviet Union. Sub-commander of the Greek Company, and later became the commander when the commanders killed. Brave. After civil war returned to Greece and imprisoned in Piraeus. Exiled in Ai-Strati and later sent to Pavlos Melas prison in Thessalonica and executed by the Nazis in 1943. Before execution the Germans asked him to say he was a Bulgarian, this he refused and was executed.
Vokos Giannis - from Mansfield USA, arrived on the SS President Roosevelt. Originally of Spetsis, wounded twice he was killed in action April 1938 at Gandesa within an American battalion and aged 45. He served in the 3rd section of 3rd Company of the Lincoln-Washington Battalion. Other sources have suggested that he be not killed at Gandesa but wounded on 2 April 1938 - both hurt and suffering from exhaustion. Member Spartacus of New York. Fought in many battles and injured twice, second time at Gandesa.
Delikostas Giannis.
Dermetzogloy Lucas (Dermitoglou L./Loukas Dermitoglou) - was killed in action April 1938 at Gandesa. He served with Lincoln Washington Battalion after arriving on the SS President Roosevelt.
Dervisogloy Avraam - a volunteer from Drabetsona, Piraeus and one of eight political prisoners that escaped from prison in Aegina in 1934. He survived the war.
Diamantaras George - (used the nickname Hiras - which is a male widow) served with an American battalion. A seaman by profession from Psarra, he survived the war. George Diamantaras took part in the battles that took place in the Middle East, during the Second World War. Later, he was sentenced to death by a Greek court-martial and executed at Eptapurgis, Salonika.
Dimas Triantafillos - arrived on the SS Lafayette 23 January 1937. He served as a soldier in the Lincoln Washington Battalion and was reported missing or killed in action March-April 1938 at Aragon aged 35. US Greek. Palaiologopoulos records him killed 4-5 April 1938 at Gandesa. On many occasions he was called upon to replace the commander of a Spanish Company, and was fondly liked by that units’ soldiers, who named him ‘Sigouro (certain/safe)’. He came to Spain with 3 years previous military experience in the Greek Army. In America he worked as a chauffeur and a cook and was a member of the Communist Party from 1929.
Dimitriou Dimitris - there is a Canadian Demetrios Demetrou (Demetres Demetrou) listed as serving with an American battalion. He was killed in action at Gandesa. Michael O’Riordan’s 1979 book, The Connolly Column, makes reference to a J.A. Demetriar who attended an anniversary event for James Connolly (the Irish 1916 Easter Rebellion leader) which took place 12 May 1937 just behind the front line at Jarama. He is described as untiring and well disciplined, and had a responsible role at the Albacete base. Responsible for the Greeks embetha. Pol. Commissar of one of the company’s of the Lincoln Battalion.
Doulgeris Moschos - one of eight political prisoners that escaped from prison in Aegina in 1May 1934. He survived the war.
Douris Antonis - (also known as Contouris) a Greek seaman from the United States (but originally from the island of Mytilene) who served as a soldier with the Lincoln Washington Brigade. A Communist Party member from 1933, he arrived in Spain on the SS Champlain - arrived Albacete 11 February 1937 aged 38. He survived the war. Prior to volunteering Antonis Douris was a member of the Brotherhood of Plomariton of New York and the Spartacus organisation.
Drakis John - (also known as Drake) arrived on SS Paris. He served as a soldier in the Lincoln Washington Battalion.
Eliadis Dinos - reported missing presumed killed in Spain. Journeyed to Spain from Paris where he had been studying Law. Originally from the village 40 Churches in Eastern Thrace.
Farsakis Stelios - a seaman from Athens. Good friend and neighbour of Nicos Karagiannis. Drowned 1941, whilst on the ship Straits - serving as a signals officer.
Feloukatzis Marios - was killed in action April 1938 at Gandesa aged 34. He served as a soldier with the Lincoln Washington Battalion.
Filippidis Ch.
Filiris Pappas
Firikis Pantelis - seaman from Hios.
Firipis Miltiades - a seaman from Zifia in Hios.
Flarakos Giannis - one of the eight people who escaped from Aegina Prison.
Floros Antonis - a Greek from Marseilles in France. During the battle for Madrid (University City) he was wounded and later died from these wounds at Genari in 1937. Always fought with traditional Greek costume.
Floros Grigoris
Fortinakis Manolis - (Basil Emmanuel) a Cretan resident in the United States where he worked as a cook, he arrived in Spain on the SS Paris 17 February 1937. A Communist Party from 1924 member he served as an infantry soldier with the Lincoln Washington Brigade. He was killed in action aged 50, on 10 March1938 at Belchite. Originally serving in an auxiliary role he later requested and achieved a transfer to frontline service in the Greek Unit.
Fortis Pavlos - is recorded as being the Platoon Commander in the Machine Gun (4th) Company of the Lincoln Washington Battalion as well as 2nd in command of the second Company (and leader of the first section) of the same battalion. During the absence of the Company Commander Lopoff, Pavlos Fortis became Acting Commander. An American Greek, he arrived on the SS Aquitania. A seaman by trade he was injured in the face by trench mortar bombardment in the Gandesa region on 31 July 1938 aged 31. He has been described as “a machine gun expert” and of him it was said that he was “loved and respected”. Alvah Bessie in his Spanish Civil War Notebooks is not so gushing, with a description thus; “Pavlos Fortis, crack machine-gunner. Swell, big-hearted guy – but not having the attributes of a commander – language difficulty also.” During the Ebro offensive he lost part of his nose and suffered cheek wounds.
Fountounakis.
Georgakis P. - a Greek from the United States.
Georgatos Spyros - a Greek American that arrived on the SS Amer Farmer. He fought with an American battalion and was a seaman from island of Kefalonia. He survived the war and later died in England. A member of the Seaman’s Union of New York. In Spain he served as sub-officer and fought at Jarama.
Georgatzis - from France, he survived the war.
Georgiadis George - is recorded both as missing in action and killed at Belchite 10 March 1938. He fought as a soldier with the Lincoln Battalion and he was also in the Greek Company of the Dimitrov Battalion. Aged 30, a member of the Communist Party (joined 1931) he was a sailor by profession and was known by the nickname, ‘Kokkalo’. He was a medic in the Lincoln Battalion. George Georgiadis - Listed as disappeared in action 10 March 1938 with the Lincoln Washington Battalion. Adolphom Ross has suggested that this is Spyros Georgatos.
Georgiou - a youth when he came to Spain. He would later disappear during the Stalin era in the Soviet Union.
Gikas Alexandros - (Chiecos Allesandros) a Greek American sailor who survived the war. Aged 35 he served as a soldier. From Los Angeles 1705 E 15th Street.
Gkrigoriaf (Gkrigorias) - who came from Athens survived the war but disappeared during the Stalin era in the Soviet Union. The name was a Russian pseudonym.
Glarios Demetrios - (Jim) arrived on the SS Paris. A Communist Party member he served in an Artillery Unit.
Glenos -an officer of the Greek Army.
Goulkof - Slav from Macedonian.
Gkoumas Kostas - (Goumas) came to Spain from Leon in France. A sailor by profession who survived the war. In the Middle East whilst with the Greek Navy he was tried by a Naval Court and sentenced to death for his democratic activities. He was not executed but imprisoned on URA.
Greko Tito - is recorded both as surviving the war and being killed. The name is a pseudonym. From Marseille in France and he was an adjutant in the Greek Company of the Dimitrov Battalion - Nilos Zacariadis Company.
Grigas Joseph - came to Spain from Massachusetts arriving in 1938. He fought with the Lincoln Battalion. Joseph Grigas was born in Worcester, Massachusetts on 15 February 1915. A POW as a result of the Aragon Retreats he was released 22 April 1939.
Grigrief.
Grigoriades Mpambis - an Athenian that survived the war. An engineer in the merchant navy and from 1930 a cadre of KKE. After the war he fought against the occupation of Greece in the Albanian front and for democracy in the national resistance against the Nazis and as a Major in the Free Democratic Army. He died a political refugee in Rumania 28 August 1979.
Hagilou John - (Evangelos Hadjilahus) arrived on the Ile de France - arrival date at Albacete 6 January 1937. A Communist Party member (joined 1931) he fought with an Lincoln-Washington battalion. In America he worked as a painter and carpenter and brought 9 year’s previous military experience with him to Spain. Whilst in Spain John Hagilou was placed under arrest and imprisoned around 22 January 1938 for making criticisms of the Communist Party of the USA. His comments, “All the money, which the Communist Party collects in the United States in order to buy cigarettes and other presents for the comrades in Spain is being spent by the members of the Party in eating steaks in the Fifth Avenue. If you return to the United States, go also to the 32nd Street and to the 13th Street and tell them to …” and “You will be dishonourable persons if you will not tell them this, which I have said.” were reported to the Brigade by fellow volunteers Douris, Halepsis, Vretos and others. He held the position of mess sergeant and held responsibility for clothing and equipment as part of battalion staff.
Economides Socrates - arrived on the SS Aquitania - arrival date at Albacete 10 February 1937. A Communist Party member in Illinois (joined 1925) and a seaman by profession he served in the Lincoln Washington Brigade taking part in the battles of Jarama and Brunete. In America he worked as a waiter. His Brigade record describes his service as ‘good.’ From Aristi Zagoriou, Ipeirou (region of Greece).Fought with the US Army in the Second World War.
Economou Giannis - was killed in action April 1938 at Gandesa. He served in the Abraham Lincoln Battalion. From Detroit, Michigan, killed at Teruel. aged 26 served as a soldier in the Lincoln Washington Battalion. Check these details.
Economakos Giannis - eaman.
Ivanof I. - (Russian pseudonym) from the island of Mytiline. He disappeared in the Stalin era of the Soviet Union.
Jasistis Frank - fought with an American battalion.
Johnson John - a labourer aged 47 from Philadelphia, he arrived on the SS Paris 17 February 1937. A Communist Party member from 1930, attached to Unit 20. He was killed in action April 1937 at Cordoba. He served with an American battalion.
Kadis Petros.
Kasoglis Petros - a seaman is incorrectly listed by Dimitrios Palaiologopoulos as killed in action April 1938 at Gandesa aged 32. However, he was most likely captured at Gandesa between 30 March and 14 April 1938 and killed at some point afterwards. He served with the Lincoln Battalion. From Fitchburg, Massachusetts he arrived on the SS Ile de France.
Katsikiotis Mitsos - (pseudonym Vernos or Vernikiotis) served in the Dimitrov Battalion and was killed Belchite 27 August 1937, other information suggests killed at Brunete. He commanded for a period an artillery battery within the Dimitrov Battalion. A tobacco worker by trade from Agrinio, Mitsos Katsikiotis was an active and long term trade unionist and a cadre of KKE. For his political work he had been imprisoned at Pilos.
Kavadias Antonis - was killed in Spain.
Kavadias Christos - (Kavvasias/ Karavias) brother of George - arrived together. A sailor from Leukimi in Corfu. He served as a soldier with the Dimitrov Battalion and was killed in Spain with the Dimitrov Battalion. He worked in the supplies/munitions clerk of the battalion.
Kavadias George - (Kavvasias) brother of Christos (with whom he initially served together) and a sailor who served with the Dimitrov Battalion. He was killed Gandesa 4-5 April 1938, trying to break out of the fascist encirclement. Like his brother he had worked for a time in the supplies/munitions department. He played a role in the reorganisation of the Greek Company within the Dimitrov Battalion.
Kalaitzis Antonis - Comintern Archive Fond 545 International Units and Brigades of the Spanish Republican Army (1936-1939) have the entry for 16 April 1937 of a Kalagis A. as sick or sent back to Albacete.
Kalaitzis Thanasis - survived the Spanish Civil War. A seaman he later died in the Soviet Union.
Kambides John - Brigade Identification Number 1394, arrived/inducted 23-26 October 1937. Served in the British Battalion. Originally from Montreal, born 5 April 1913. Moved to Greece soon after (1914) – Kranidi, Pelleponese, Arkolis. He was taken prisoner in Aragon - Gandesa region March-April 1938 after involvement in the second battle for Guadalajara - taken prisoner with his comrade Nicos Psilo. Tried and sentenced to death and transported to a prison camp. It is generally suggested that he was saved because of his Canadian citizenship – but Kambides tells us a story of how he was saved by a sergeant whose wife and children he had fed. The sergeant beat him up, pushed him into a truck and said he was wanted for questioning – he also pushed money and tobacco into his armpit. Subsequently he was a POW at San Pedro de Cardena – released 5 May 1939. Also served with the Lincoln Battalion – probably in the Greek section of the 2nd Company. MA 545/6/90 page 16. (IBA Box D-7 File A/6). Single. A shoemaker by trade he was a member of the Communist Party – joined 1937. Contact Address – Albert Kambides, 57 Greek Street, London W.1. This was probably his brother Andreas. John Kambides travelled to Spain via England. The Mackenzie-Papineau Battalion web-site of Canadian Volunteers lists a John Kambides who lived in Canada – his name appears on the Ottawa Memorial. After the war he allegedly switched Ids with an Irishman James Haughey from Lurgan and stayed in Britain, whilst Haughey went onto Canada. ‘Because of Haughey’s difficulties being a Catholic who had fought against Franco, Haughey apparently swapped ID with a Cypriot who was going to Canada – Kambides. Using this disguise he did enter Canada, but he had reverted to his own name later as he joined the Canadian Air Force during World War 2 in 1941.’ Dimitrios Palaiologopoulos says that John Kambites was an assistant in the command office for the Rigas Ferraios Company of the Dimitrov (Balkan) Battalion – he was an officer. He rose from corporal, sergeant, and sub-lieutenant to Captain having attended the military school over several periods. A Moscow Record for him exists. Comintern Archives have a file entry for him with the nationality entry Cypriot crossed out and replaced by Greek. Served as a soldier. Took part as an officer in many battles, and was an assistant in the formation of the Greek Company of the Balkan Battalion. Played a leading role for several months in the police force at Tarazona de la Mancha; this included having some responsibility for prisoners held in that district. He eventually moved back to Quebec in Canada and died in 1985 in Saudi Arabia on his way to Uganda. A list of prisoners moved from de Rio Seco POW camp to San Pedro POW camp 9 April 1938 (15:00h) includes John Kambites age 25 of Canada and London.
Karagiannis Apostolos - (Garaylons) a Greek American that came to Spain from New York City. He served with an American battalion and survived the war. On a list of evacuees from Saint Agaro. Role not frontline but as support.
Karagiannis Giannis - (pseudonym Pappous which suggest a mature person) fought with the Lincoln Washington Battalion. A seaman of mature age he survived the war, having been wounded at Gandesa during the Aragon retreats. His wounds to the leg and abdomen were severe, but he received treatment from other Greek soldiers that saved his life.
Karagiannis Nicos - a seaman from Piraeus, who served in the Dimitrov Battalion. One of the first volunteers, a political activist in the working class movement and an important cadre of the Greek Seaman’s Union. He held a leadership position with the other 16 Greeks he travelled with to Spain. He initially raised the idea of a Greek Company within the Dimitrov Battalion and ended up in prison as a result. Vindicated he went on to help found the company. After the civil war, Nicos Karagiannis worked at a significant level in the Greek Seaman’s Union and as a fighter for democracy within Greece. During the occupation of Greece he went to the Middle East. Along with Giannis Salas and Vasili Nepheloudi, he directed the progressive movement of Greeks and Karagiannis was secretary of the Greek Seaman’s Union. In beginning of 1943, took part in the formation of the National Committee of Directing the Struggle of Anti-Fascists in the Middle East. A political refugee he died in Klauz in Rumania in 1969.
Karantzalis Elias E H.- from Camden New Jersey he arrived 17 February 1937 on the SS President Roosevelt. Rev (?) A member of the Communist Party, he fought with an American battalion. Possibly George Karantzalis.
Karantzalis George A. - a Greek from America – original the town of Gideon (near Athens) - was killed in action April 1938 at Gandesa (or killed in action 23-24 February 1937 at Jarama) He served with the Abraham Lincoln Battalion having arrived on 11 February 1937. A member of the Communist Party of the United States from 1930-31-2, food worker and a cadre of the New York Hellenic organisation Spartacus. He went to the US in 1907 looking for work. From 1926 involved in the working class movement. Joined CPUSA in 1930 and took part in organising strikes in the food production industries. Dedicated to the cause. One of the most active members of Spartacus and the Food Workers’ Union. One of the first who went to the Lincoln Battalion.
Karaviolas Spiros - a seaman by profession.
Karnavas Demetrios - from the island of Icaria was one of the founders of the Communist Party branch there. Along with fellow comrades he was the victim of political persecution. He survived the Spanish Civil War. Exiled and imprisoned on Folegandros, Anaphi and Sciros. After liberation of Greece continued to be persecuted. Died in Icaria in August 1981.
Kalepis
Kalpekas Kostas - (Kalpakas) from Paris, he was killed in fighting around Madrid (University City) in 1936.
Karavolos Giannis - fought with the Lincoln Battalion. A sailor aged less than 20, he arrived in Spain at the end of 1937. He was killed at Belchite on 10 March 1938.
Karavolos Giorgos - a seaman by trade, he survived the Spanish Civil War.
Kelepekis Costas - returned to USA after the war. He served with the Lincoln Battalion. Originally from Thessalonica; various sources have him living in either Marseille or New York. He was killed in fighting around Madrid.
Keranis George - (Panayiotis) a seaman, he survived the war having served in the 15th International Brigade.
Keranos S.
Kesaris - survived the war, he was an immigrant from America.
Kilas Bali - (Billy) aged 25 he arrived on the SS Washington. He fought with the Americans.
Kioukis Alexandros - was killed in action April 1938 at Gandesa. He served with the Abraham Lincoln Battalion.
Kioukis - a seaman who survived the war.
Kipriotakis Dimitrios - a seaman who survived the war.
Kipriotikis Nicos - a seaman by profession he was killed at Belchite 10 March 1938 or killed in action April 1938 at Gandesa - his name is recorded as missing in action April 1938. He served with the Abraham Lincoln Battalion as a soldier.
Kiriakidis Pantelis - served as part of a tank crew as its driver.
Kisielis (?) Liudes - (Louis) served with the Americans in the MP unit.
Klidonaris Apostolos - a cadre within KKE the Greek Communist Party. He was Member of Parliament for Popular Front in Greece. He was one of the eight escapees from the prison in Aegina, later he disappeared during the Stalin trial era of the Soviet Union.
Koulakiniotis George A. - arrived on the SS Ile de France - arrival date at Albacete 31 March 1937. A Communist Party member (joined 1936), he returned to the USA after the war where he had previously worked in the food industry. Probably Koulikiotis.
Koulikiotis
Kourkouliotis Nicos - from Halkidiki, a dock worker by trade and working class activist was killed in action sometime between the end of July and the beginning of August 1938 during the Ebro Offensive – shot in the head whilst leading his squad into attack. He had served with the Dimitrov and Lincoln Battalions and had been the Political Commissar of the 2nd Company of the Abraham Lincoln Battalion until demoted to the ranks – due to difficulty with his leadership style. He was described as, “a born orator” and “a good soldier; one of the finest”. Wounded earlier at the start of his two years service in Spain – at the Battle for Madrid. From Bessie (?) in regard to the Ebro Offensive: “The fighting was so heavy that by evening of July 29th there were fewer than 400 men of the original seven hundred still in action. Kourkouliotis, the Greek Commissar of Company Two, was dead; his body lay in an exposed spot below the crest of the hill, facing the enemy.” Dimitrios Palaiologopoulos and Christos Lazos record him as having the rank of sub-lieutenant. There is a photograph of him in Alvah Bessie’s Spanish Civil War Notebooks, which includes the entry. “August 1: We had forty-odd Internationals in the company when the action started 9 days ago; now we have 13. Four of the seven known dead are Internationals – Kourkouliotis (Greek), ex-commissar, Madden, Lins and Scarlettos.” Fought with the Greek Company in eastern Spain and with Lincoln Battalion. Officer. Madrid battles wounded seriously. On recovery returned to frontline. 2nd Company adjutant 6.8.38 until 29.8.38.
Kouzis George - aged 44 from Philadelphia PA he arrived on the SS Paris - arrival date at Albacete 17 February 1937. A member of the Communist Party (joined 1935) and a sailor he served as a soldier in the Dimitrov Battalion and later the Lincoln Battalion. Recorded as killed Belchite 10 March 1938. He is also listed as returned to the United States December 1938. Fought at Jarama.
Kouvatzis Costas - from France he survived the war.
Krist Nicolas/ Nicos Khrtsolakis - aged 43 from Chicago arrived on the SS Ile de France. He was listed as returned to the United States in December 1938.
Kritikos Giorgos - who lived in France (Marseille) and survived the war.
Laganas Christoforos a seaman from Laka of Mesonia. As a student in Moscow he travelled to Spain where he attended the officer training school at Pitsorombi near Albacete. The book, ‘Pitosorombi’ penned by Christoforous Laganos is his memoir of the Spanish Civil War. He died in Greece 1971.
Liligiannis J. S. - (John Spyridon) killed in action 19th October 1937 at Fuentes de Ebro. He served with the Abraham Lincoln Battalion having arrived on the SS Georgic.
Lionezos Panayiotis
Litsas Christos E. - (Chris/ Litsos) aged 17 from Worcester, Massachusetts. He served with an American battalion and is recorded as amongst the very youngest of the volunteers that came from the United States in the Odyssey of the Abraham Lincoln Brigade by Peter Carroll.
Litvinas Anthony - aged 24 from Chicago, arrived on the SS Paris and fought with an American battalion.
Louloudis/ Tou (?) - arrived on the SS Paris. He fought with an American battalion.
Maciulis Edward A. - arrived on the SS President Roosevelt. He served with an American battalion.
Madis Panayiotis (Peter) J. - came from Portland, Oregon. He served as a soldier with the Abraham Lincoln Battalion, after having arrived on the SS Britannic. After being captured at Belchite he became a prisoner of war 10 March 1938 at Belchite or January 1938 at Teruel aged 37. He was not repatriated from Valdenoceda Prison, where he was being held, with the other American volunteers because he was deemed an alien by the US Government. His name appears on a list of POWs still held at Miranda de Ebro in 1941.
Makrigiannakis - from Crete.
Makrinos Costas - a seaman from Piraeus.
Makropoulos Costas - (Costas Macropolis) a seaman from island of Mytiline (has a common name), he went to Spain in 1938 and took part as a soldier in battles in the Gandesa Region.
Maragiakis Antonio Spyros - served with the American Lincoln Washington Battalion. At Belchite/Gandesa (1 April 1938) his heroism was officially recognised when he was cited for bravery. Listed as missing 1 April 1938.
Marcopoupoulos Lampros - arrived on the SS Aquitania.
Mavrogiannakis Stavros - a seaman killed in action April 1938 at Gandesa. Palaiologopoulos describes him as captured in the region of Catalonia imprisoned in Spain (Biskaia) and later liberated with the intervention of the Red Cross. He appears on a list of missing in action 1 April 1938. Whereupon, he travelled to Canada to join his brother. He served with the Abraham Lincoln Battalion and was Cretan.
Mavrogiannis St.- a seaman. Probably Mavrogiannakis Stavros.
Mavropoulos Petros - from Piraeus he served as an officer in a Spanish unit. After the collapse of the Republic, Petros Mavropoulos spent time in the French concentration camp at Lower Pyrenees in France, where he had command of the 18 Greeks housed there.
Mavros Manolis - from Marseilles but originally from Kalymnos. He was killed fighting in the Madrid area (University City) in 1936.
Mazarakis Spyros - a seaman by profession aged 23.
Megaloikonomou Nicholas - a Greek American volunteer. He was a member of the Association of ‘Nicos Koundourakis’ of Pittsburgh. From Kythea. Served behind the lines.
Mesadakos Vasilis - a ship’s engineer. Later served in the resistance against the Nazi occupation as an officer of ELAS in Euboea/Evia.
Michailides Panayiotis - (Panos) served with the Abraham Lincoln Brigade. He was responsible for the Mail Service of the Greek-American volunteers and was a correspondent for the New York American Greek Communist newspaper Empros (Forward). He was fluent in English, Greek, Turkish, Spanish and Italian. After the Spanish War he returned to America but later settled in Greece in 1946, marrying a Greek woman, Maria. And, later he again moved to the United Sates where he died in Philadelphia in August 1960. Aged 44 at the time of the civil war, Panayiotis Michailides hailed from Philadelphia PA. His trade is given as a painter and fireman in Brigade records and he joined the Communist Party in 1932. And arrived on the SS Paris - arrival date at Albacete 17 February 1937. TFrom Bougazia, Thrace.
Mikades Konstantinos - (Gus), a Greek American volunteer that served in the Lincoln Battalion. From Philadelphia (734 Delaware Avenue, Glassport PA) steelworker member, he was a member of SWOC, but also worked as a waiter. A member of the Young Communist League that transferred to US Communist Party in 1936. Additionally, a member of the Democratic Organising Committee. Gus Mikades arrived in Spain May 23 1938, and saw service in the 1st and 2nd Company of the Abraham Lincoln Battalion. His training occurred at Mont Blanc 30 May – 30 June 1938. Fought Ebro-Gandesa. Part of a machine-gun squad. 25 days at front – July 25-August 19, 1938. Injured in Gandesa sector August 19 1938, under artillery bombardment, Battle for Hill 666, Sierra Pandols– in the neck, aneurysm of right carotid artery, shrapnel lodged in neck. Spent lots of time in various hospitals, Valls (6 days), Tarragona (3), Caldes Mallever (4), Santa Coloma-Fatnes (5), and Mataro (6 weeks).

“In one of the beds next to me was another American, Gus Mikades, with a piece of shrapnel in his neck near the jugular vein. The operation, which would be required to reverse it, would be very risky. Tudor-Harte, the English chief surgeon, was quite prepared to have it done in America where he would have a better chance of survival. Gus decided to wait. (While in London in 1939 I received a letter from Jim O’Regan telling me of the sad news of his death in Beth Israil Hospital, New York in January of that year.)"

As a youngster 1930-36, Gus Mikades played for the Glassport Odds football club, Pennsylvania. Death listed elsewhere as 15th December 1938. Listed as returned to United States December 1938 – New York Times article. From McKeesport.
Monastiriotis Socrates - arrived on the SS Paris. He served with an American battalion. This must be Socrates Montis.
Montis Socrates - aged 35 from Kapikura (Corfu) and a member of the Spartacus organisation, he was killed in Spain. His name is on a list of evacuees released from S’Agaro. Greek from America. Injured severely at Jarama and died later of his injuries in Spain.
Mortakias
Mougiannis Christos - from Icaria killed in action 31 August 1937 at Aragon (most probably Belchite). He served with the Lincoln Battalion. From Baltimore and a painter by trade, Christos Mougiannis arrived on the SS Aquitania arrival date at Albacete 11 February 1937. A Communist Party of the United States member (joined 1928), he was a sailor by profession. Palaiologopoulos says killed Aragon 26 August 1937, most probably at Belchite.
Mozures Christos - a prisoner of war after his capture April 1938 at Gandesa. He served with the Lincoln Battalion.
Mprantis Nicos - a Greek American volunteer. From Aivali in Asia Minor. Took part in battles on the eastern front.
Mpezantakos Michalis - killed in Spain. A worker in the steel needle industry he had escaped from political imprisonment at Suggrou in March 1932.
Nefeloudis Markos - a seaman.
Nicolaides Alexandros - an officer of the Greek Army.
Nicolaides P. - from France he was killed in the battle for Madrid 7 January 1937.
Nicolaou Panayiotis - killed in Spain.
Nomikos George - (this is possibly a false name?) from Marseilles reported missing.
Novaris
Ntokas Vasilis - (Ntogas) a Greek from France (Leon). He was originally from Trikala.
Ntouris Antonios - a Greek from New York City and member of Brotherhood of Polymariton of America and of Spartacus. From island of Mytilene. Took part in battles of Madrid and Aragon 1937-38.
Ordonis Emmanuel - an American Greek served with the Lincoln Washington Battalion.
Pales Savas - (Pseudonym of Savas Sgeuiros) a seaman from Hios, he went to Spain from Egypt. During the civil war Savas Pales fought in several battles and dangerous missions. The following appears in the Volunteer for Liberty of July 1944; “International Brigaders are certainly playing their part in the Greek Seamen’s Union. Pales is treasurer of the Union in Cardiff.” Served in the frontline and ended up in a French Concentration Camp. He joined the popular working class struggle in Greece, and later ended up in the Soviet Union (Tashkent) before returning to live in Athens.
Pangalos Theodoros - aged 39, he served mostly in the Dombrowski Battalion, from February 1937 until August 1938. Bomb shrapnel wounded him. He had arrived on the SS Paris and served for a time with an American battalion. A Greek American volunteer who had lived in New York since 1923. Whilst in Spain he fractured his femul - “accidente fract femil izq.” From Bouhazi, East Thrace. As an officer he took part in the battles of Brunete and those on the Eastern Front.
Panagiotou George - a Greek American volunteer (Dodecanese) who served as an officer (sub-lieutenant) in the artillery - Tom Mooney Company of the Lincoln Battalion. Makisport, Pennsylvania. Originally from Rhodes. Fought in the Battle of Jarama and in the Eastern Front.
Pandela Elides - (Pantelis) aged 36 he served as a soldier with the Lincoln Washington Battalion. Listed as missing 1 April 1938.
Panos John - arrived on the SS President Roosevelt and he served with an American battalion.
Panou Panos - a Greek American volunteer that served as an officer within a Spanish unit. Captured during the Aragon retreats.
Pantelias Giannis - (pseudonyms: Giannis Margaritis and Giannis Mpelkos) killed at Belchite 26-28 August 1937, 15km from Saragossa. Originally from Mesogeia Attiko. A carpenter and member of the KKE Political Committee for Athens. Tobacco worker from Agrinion, trade unionist and cadre of KKE he had spent some time in the Soviet Union. Also in the Dombrowski Battalion. Before Spain he was a student leader. Worked in timber manufacturing in Athens. Always in frontline of working movement - organised strikes. From 1930, member KKE and later on of Committee of Communist Party of Athens. Many assassination attempts in Greece - bosses and security agencies. Eventually in 1934, forced to go abroad. Initially joined the Republican Army and became pol. Commissar - a mistake by Lazos - of Greek Company NZ. Also, a commander of Greek Company. Need to sought out commissar/commander bit.
Papadopullo Michael - arrived on the SS Washington and served with an American battalion.
Papadopolous Simeon V. - arrived on the SS Aquitania.
Papazoglou Costas - served in the navy in Spain as an officer. Prior to going to Spain he had been an officer of the Greek Navy. Member of the Venizelos Movement, and consequently condemned by an Admiralty Court of the Greek Navy. But got to Paris. Fellow Greek volunteers described him as brave and fearless. During the second world war he drowned whilst with the Greek navy in major Asia, his bought was sunk by a German submarine.
Papakostas George - listed as killed in action 4-5 April 1938 at Gandesa by Dimitrios Palaiologopoulos. However, he was most likely captured at Gandesa between 30 March and 14 April 1938 and killed after capture. He served with the Dimitrov (Greek Company) and Lincoln Battalion. Aged 34 from Detroit in Michigan, George Papakostas a Greek from America arrived on the SS Ile de Paris at the beginning of 1937 and has been described as very disciplined. An officer after the reorganisation of the Greek Company.
Pappas Christos - a Greek American volunteer. Lieutenant of the 4th Company of an American Battalion, Christos Pappas was the brother of George Pappas.
Pappas George M. - (George M. Pappas) served with the Lincoln Washington Battalion as a soldier and was killed whilst fighting in Central Spain aged 27 - his name is listed as missing in action April 1938. Brother of Christos Pappas. Killed 1937 according to Tsermenkes etc. However he is on a list of volunteers that went on to fight with the US Army in the Second World War.
Pappas Nicos (Mike) - served with the Lincoln Battalion. He was the Machine Gun Company Commander with position as a Sub Lieutenant. A Greek American volunteer, he is the brother of Filippos Pappos. “A tough Greek from New York who had worked in Moscow during the Depression, Nick Pappas, commanded the Machine Gun company.” Fought at Jarama and in the Eastern Front. Returned to New York after the civil war. Pappas Mike served as a soldier with the Lincoln-Washington Battalion. A Greek American volunteer, in the machine-gun company. He fought at Belchite aged 24. In the United States he worked as a metalworker. To Spain he brought one and a half years military experience and a command of English, Greek and Russian. Commander Tom Mooney Company - 18.3.38 until July 1938. Adjutant 4.8.37 until 7.9.37. Fought with the US Army in the Second World War.
Pappas Phillip - killed in action at the battle of Jarama 24 or 27 February (or 27 March) 1937. He served as a soldier with the Lincoln Battalion. From New York City where he worked in the furniture industry, of Greek parents, he arrived on the SS Paris. - arrived Albacete 17 February 1937. Age 19 and a member of the Communist Party of the United States, he was a cadre of the New York Hellenic organisation Spartacus as well as a member of the ‘Greek Athletic Association of New York’. Killed Jarama 24 February 1937.
Paris N.
Parasiadis Odysseus - seaman, arrived on the SS Georgic. Reported Missing in action April 1 1938 at Gandesa, he served as a soldier with the Lincoln Washington Battalion.
Pasaglou Giannis A. - arrived on the SS Washington - arrived Albacete 2 April 1937. A Greek American volunteer, he served with an American battalion. A member of the Communist Party (joined 1937) who worked as a cook in the United States. He spoke English, Greek and Turkish.
Paskioglou Theodosis - (Pseudonym Pangkalos) aged 36 he served as a soldier in the International Brigades.
Pavelimaniotis - no information.
Pavlou - a youth. After Spain he went to the Soviet Union, he subsequently disappeared in the Stalin trial era of the Soviet Union.
Pelatis Antonis - a seaman who served as a soldier in the Lincoln Washington Battalion. Listed as disappeared in action April 1938 during the retreats.
Petrou Demetris - officer of the Greek Army. He became in Spain, an organiser of the 113th (Spanish Army) Brigade and later an officer of the Greek Company Rigas Ferraios.
Petrou Nicos
Plenos Takis - went to Spain from the Soviet Union. An organiser of the 112th (Spanish) Brigade and officer of the Greek Company.
Pongalos Theodor - (Pongales) from Canada. On a list of volunteers evacuated from Saint A’garo.
Priovolos Ilias - (Louis) a restaurant owner from New York (originally Galaxithi) in the United States. Aged 49 this seaman arrived on the SS Ile de France - arrived Albacete 2 April 1937. He was wounded in combat and subsequently and after a period of coalescence worked as a medical officer. A Communist Party member (joined 1925) with 10 years previous military experience.
Proios Panayiotis - from McKeesport, PA arrived on the SS Lafayette. His journey from Paris to Spain was delayed by an eye infection. Within a week of arrival in Spain he was sent to the front at Teruel. A sailor by profession, he was killed in action 4-5 April 1938 at Gandesa aged 35. He served as a soldier with the Lincoln Battalion. “We couldn’t understand a word Proios said, but he made himself understood nevertheless. Without a word of English at his command, he had even managed to clean out the third-class passengers at poker. He could laugh; he laughed every time he raked in a pot and spread his hands in an apologetic manner. He had beautiful teeth, framed in gold.” – Source: Alvah, Bessie, Men in Battle.
Prokopiotis Stergios
Protagoras Hercules - a Greek American volunteer. He fought in several battles including the Ebro offensive.
Protagoras Petros - from New York. This Greek American volunteer was a member of the Spartacus organisation of New York and was part of the editorial group for the newspaper, Empros.
Psarros Giannis - a seaman from island of Andros.
Psilos Nicolas - a sailor from Hios, after arriving at the end of 1937, he fought with the Lincoln Washington Battalion and also in the Greek Company of the Dimitrov Battalion. Alongside John Kambides he was captured at the second battle for Guadalajara (Dimitrios Palaiologopoulos says the defensive battle of Anatolikou Metopou) after being surrounded by enemy troops - his name appears on a list of those disappeared in action April 1938. Attempting to surrender Nicolas Psilos was shot and killed by fascist troops. John Kambides chronicles the shooting in his unpublished memoirs. “Eventually we fell into the enemy’s vanguard and in front of about 100 Moroccans who had their guns pointed at us. And Niko laughing said to me ‘Become a Turk Gianne.’ And we burst into laughter. ‘Why are you laughing?’ a fascist soldier asked, and Niko replied, ‘We are happy to see you Mr Fascist.’ Suddenly there sounded a cry, ‘Matales, matales, son internacionales.’ In other words, ‘Kill them, kill them, they are internationals.’ I turned to look at Niko, but his ears were filled with blood. His eyes were glassy. Niko is dead. In the commotion, I knelt towards the corpse, wept and said, Enslaved soil Spanish soil, It has been watered With Greek blood.” Injured in one of the battles of the Eastern Front. Adolpho Ross has suggested that this is Bil Nik. Strangely his name appears on a list of POWs still held at Miranda de Ebro in 1941.A list of prisoners moved from de Rio Seco POW camp to San Pedro POW camp 9 April 1938 (15:00h) includes Nicolas Psilos age 24 - a carpenter from Hios.
Psoriasmenos Marcos - (This name is a nickname) from Marseilles in France. Listed as Missing.
Raisis George A. - a seaman from New York where he worked as a driver, he served with the Lincoln Washington Battalion. A Greek American volunteer originally from island of Andros who arrived on the SS Paris and at Albacete 17 February 1937. Fought at Jarama. Member of Spartacus Club.
Rapitis Demetris - killed in action 13 October 1937 at Fuentes de Ebro. He served with Lincoln Battalion, having arrived on the SS Georgic. A Sailor by profession he hailed originally from Hios. A member of Communist Party of Greece from an early age, he was very politically active in Piraeus. During the Metaxas regime he left Greece for New York. In New York, he was a cadre of the Spartacus organisation. Killed in Central Spain - possibly Brunete.
Romanis Costas - from Philadelphia PA that arrived on the SS Washington - arrived Madrigueras 2 April 1937. He was killed in action 31 August 1937 at Aragon. He served in the Lincoln Battalion as a soldier. Palaiologopoulos says killed at Saragossa, probably Belchite area on 25 March 1937. A sailor he was a member of the Spartacus organisation of Philadelphia and described himself in Brigade records as an anti-fascist. Killed 25 August 1937 at Saragossa.
Rominis John - served with an American battalion and was killed in action March 1938 at Belchite.
Roumpo Pavlos - a Greek from Leon in France, but originally of Constantinople.
Sakarellos Demetris (Pseudonym Giannis) a teacher from Krokili of Thoridas. He was a cadre of KKE in Piraeus and well known activist. Demetris Sakarellos and Nicos Vavoudis escaped along with six others from imprisonment at Aegina in 1934. He had responsibility for the Greek volunteers at the Albacete base. By profession a cargo handler. From Athens, member of CP of Greece and well-known for his political activities. He was imprisoned for the murder of Archiomarxist, George Papathakos. In Spain a political commissar at the Albacete base - responsible for the Greek volunteers. After Spain, went to France and organised the fight for democracy against the Metaxas regime in Greece. Killed in an air crash in Yugoslavia after the liberation of Greece, while returning to Greece during the civil war. Other information says he disappeared in the Soviet Union.
Saliagas Themistoklis - a Communist Party member from the USA, he served with an American battalion. A seaman from Thrace. Fought at Jarama and in the Eastern Front.
Samaras Costas - arrived on the SS President Roosevelt. He served as a soldier with the Lincoln Washington Battalion. A Cretan seaman, he was killed at Gandesa 5 April 1938, aged 46 or 50.
Samulis Victor - (Anton) aged 26 he arrived on the SS President Roosevelt. Samulis served with an American battalion. He came from Canada.
Sapounakis Diavlehcos - a seaman from Crete or Kalemnos.
Sarikas Costas - from Tambouria in Piraeus. One of the eight escapees from Aegina Prison.
Savako (?) John - from Philadelphia, arrived on the SS Ile de France. He served with an American battalion.
Savas - a seaman who took part in the battles of Belchite and Gandesa in spring of 1938.
Serios George
Serafimidis Omiros - (Pseudonym Stavros) who arrived very early in the civil war initially with the Dombrowski Battalion. During fighting for Madrid at the end of 1936, Omiros Serafimidis received wounds. After recovery he transferred out of the International Brigades and into the navy as an officer. He originated from Smyrna.
Siganos Costas - a sailor that went to Spain from France or the Soviet Union.
John Siganos aged 22 from the Bronx, New York City. This seaman arrived on the SS Queen Mary. A member of the Young Communist League. He was killed in action October 1937 at Fuentes de Ebro. Siganos served with the Lincoln-Washington Battalion and held the position of lieutenant. Palaiologopoulos says killed Saragossa or possibly Brunete having arrived in Spain either from France or the Soviet Union. Tsermenkes write, “born 23 December 1916 in Dacot in Massachusetts. Member of CP youth and organiser activities in schools, one of the most active members of the cp youth movement. Member Spartacus of New York and a member of Greek sporting union - Star, distinguished amateur boxer. His father Costas Siganos also a fighter of the workers’ movement was happy to send his son to the battle front. Went with his son to the dock and encouraged his son to fight. John Z was one of the 200ish Greek men from United States and Canada. Arrives early March 1937. Very brave in battle, fearless. At Brunete heroism and bravery, when Franco’s troops counter attacked to re-secure Brunete, JZ fatally injured and subsequently died of a machine gun wound."
Simeonidas George - a Greek from France.
Skarletas Costas - arrived on the SS President Roosevelt. A seaman from Psara, he served as a machine gunner in the second Company of the Abraham Lincoln Battalion. A “red-eyed Greek” he was killed in action around the 1 August 1938 – shot through the throat. See also entry for Nicos Kourkouliotis.
Skepas Nicolas - aged 29, from New York – Brooklyn, he arrived on the SS Berengaria - arrived Albacete 5 February 1937. A member of the Communist Party, Nicolas Skepas served with an American battalion. Listed as returning to the United States December 1938. From Evia. Injured at Jarama 27 February.
Skevofilakas Panayiotis - a seaman from the island of Karpathos (Pigathia). His ship left Greece on 18 December 1936, was carrying weapons to Spain, but the captain sold them to Franco. And he was imprisoned for 8 months. One of his good friends Rapitis and Avramides. At age 36 he gave interview, Quarterly.
Sofiadis Michael - from Baltimore, he served with an American battalion. Originally from Rhodes.
Spinos - a student of pharmacy from Paris. This volunteer from Hios was killed during the battle for Madrid (University City) in 1936.
Spyros - a seaman that fought at the Battle of Belchite and Gandesa in the spring of 1938.
Splinis Leonidas - a seaman from Vrontades in Chios. He was part of a group of Greek Anarchists serving in Spain; he fought within the Durruti Column.
Stavrou Giannis - from Grenoble in France, he was killed in the battle for Madrid (University City) in 1936. A Thracian by birth he was an officer in Spain.
Stergiou Vangelis - a Greek from Leon in France Originally from Volos in Greece. Injured in the Madrid front..
Stefopoulos Kyriakos - (pseudonym Demetris Perros and Beredis and Pandelis) killed at Belchite 26 August 1937. He was the Political Commissar of the Greek Company of the Dimitrov Battalion. A railway worker and member of the KKE Political Committee for Piraeus. Worker from Athens. Member of CP of Greece from 1929. Seconded member of KKE. One of the directors of the Greek Worker’s movement of Piraeus. Harassed by police and secret services in Greece, so had to go abroad. Went to Spain and became a volunteer in the Spanish Army.
Stivenson Stefanos - (Steve) killed in Spain. From America, originally Mani in Greece. In 1937 took part in the battle of Jarama and killed at Belchite, spring 1938.
Stragief George from the USA this Greek who arrived in Spain in early 1937 was reported missing at Belchite 10 March 1938 - killed. Served with the Lincoln Battalion and also the Dimitrov Battalion. He took part in a many battles in Spain in the ranks of the Greek Company of the Dimitrov Battalion.
Stamatakos Costas - (Nicos) a restaurant owner from Springfield, Massachusetts in the USA. He arrived on the SS Washington - arrived Albacete 2 April 1937. A Communist Party (joined 1935) member. Unit, that served in the 1st Regiment de Train (transport division of the XVth Brigade). He served with an American battalion. A Greek American volunteer, he is listed as returning to the United States December 1938. From Mani in Greece.
Stevenson George - a Greek American volunteer from New York.
Tabakof - (this is a Russian pseudonym also known as George) disappeared during the Stalin trial era of the Soviet Union.
Tarahanakis Costas - a Greek American officer of the Greek Company aged 29.
Tarazanakis Demetris - a Greek from the USA, killed in action 10 March 1938 at Belchite. He served with the Lincoln Battalion, having arrived on the SS Georgic. Palaiologopoulos says he was killed in action at Gandesa 4-5 April 1938. He was an officer at Company level - sergeant. Moscow Records detail him as a soldier.
Temelkoff, Simon - a Greek from Toronto in Canada. Immigrated in 1930 and a restaurant worker who was originally from Leceine in Greece (described himself as Macedonian). Joined Communist party of Canada in 1933 and arrived in Spain 6 July 1937. As a domiciled alien he managed to return to Canada after the war - 24 February 1939.
Therianos George - a seaman from Samos who survived the war having served as a soldier in the 15th International Brigade (Lincoln Washington Battalion) aged 22. He is listed as missing in action 1 April 1938. Later drowned (post-war) in a shipwreck in the sea of Maghis (sea between England and France)
Thomaidis Minas - from New York (but Pontus by descent) this Greek volunteer fought with an American battalion. He survived the war having served as a Tank officer - sub lieutenant. Fought bravely at the Battle of Brunete and Teruel and received decoration for his fighting at Brunete. In January 1938 his tank was the first to enter Teruel. He died in Pontiac, Michigan in the United States.
Thomazos Vagelis - a seaman who survived the war. A cadre of KKE he had escaped from the prison at Aegina - one of the eight. Possibly Tomof - who died in the Soviet Union.
Tsagarakis Niko
Tomof - (a Russian pseudonym; real name Tsangaragis Nicos) originally Athens or Cretan. Organiser of the escape of the 8 cadres of the Communist Party from Suggrou prison in 1931. Then travelled to the Soviet Union where he became a factory worker in Moscow. After Spain he was arrested by police force in the Soviet Union alongside his father and brother in law (also Greek). Died in the Soviet Union. One of the best of OKNE in the 1930s. Organiser of the escape of the eight members of the CP from Singrou.
Topizis Apostolos
Topolianos Stelios - a furrier aged 37 with three years previous military experience, this Greek American from New York arrived on the SS Normandy - Albacete 6 January 1937. A Communist Party member (joined 1931) who as a soldier served in the Lincoln Washington Battalion. First aid man and in the Machine Gun (3rd) Company. At Jarama he was involved in the rescue of Captain Scott the 1st Company Commander who was wounded. Cretan by origin. Fought Madird, Jarama and Aragon. Injured in hand, March 1937.
Touloudis George - arrived on the SS Paris. He served with an American battalion.
Tozias Ilias
Trilivas Demetris - a seaman from Astakos, Etholoagarmia. He fought with the Lincoln Washington Battalion. When civil war started he was working on a ship. On arrival in Spain he joined the Republican forces. After the war carried on travelling. During the German occupation he was with ELAM. Later he went to Moscow and then returned to Greece during the civil war. Killed in the battle of Gramos in Greece.
Trilivas Spyros- a seaman whose origins where either Ithaki or Keffalonia.
Trovelas Demetris - a sailor. Probably Demetris Trilivas.
Tsakos George S. - aged 36 he arrived on the SS Lafayette - arrived Albacete 23 January 1937. A painter by trade he served as a soldier with an American battalion to which he brought four years previous military experience. A member of the Communist Party (joined 1935) that spoke English, Greek, Russian, Italian and Rumanian.
Tsanakis Giannis - held the position of Lieutenant. A Greek he had lived in Russia prior to the Spanish Civil War, although originally of Volos. He was a leader of the 2nd Company of the Lincoln-Washington Battalion in which a great many Cypriots and Greeks served. From New York and aged 31, he had arrived on the SS Queen Mary. Listed as Missing 1 April 1938. Member Spartacus of New York.
Tsanakos Costas - a Greek who came from the Soviet Union.
Tsermengas Costas - a Greek American from Icaria.
Tsermenkes Stephanos - an officer (Lieutenant) who fought at the Battle of Caspe and received an award whilst serving in the International Brigade. He was a member of the Communist Party (joined 1931) and, died in Poland in 1981. Stephanos Tsermenkes published recollections of the Spanish Civil War in the magazine AEGI. An American Greek originating from Mavrato in Ikaria. He was an active trade unionist working ion the food industry and a member of the Communist Party of the United States of America (from 1930). He travelled to Spain at the beginning of 1937, taking part in several battles. His arrival date at Albacete was 6 January 1937. During these engagements Stephanos Tsermenkes was wounded twice. Firstly, at Jarama, as an officer in the American Battalion where his wound required three months treatment in hospital and later during the Ebro Offensive. Involved in administrative duties for his Company as well as having responsibility for transportation within in American Battalion – a Lieutenant aged 34. Born 1902. Went to America at a young age - many jobs New York and Pennsylvania. In 1927 joined Food Workers Union. !931 joins CPUSA. When war starts in Spain - goes to Spain 2 January 1937. Served initially in the first aid unit. Later in artillery battery of the Abraham Lincoln Battalion. Because of bravery and ability promoted to sub-lieutenant. He was training the new volunteers. Fought in all the fronts and injured twice. After the civil war returned to America, was prosecuted and imprisoned in America. Again in 1953 he was imprisoned for political activity, held for 10 months. Then deported - settled in Poland. In 1987 published his book. Injured by shrapnel during the Ebro offensive.
Tsislikas Chalampros drowned 30 May 1937 on the SS Ciudad de Barcelona - still listed as missing June 1937.
Tsironis Giannis - killed in action 24 or 27 February 1937 at Jarama having only arrived at Albacete 11 February 1937. Served with the Lincoln Battalion. He arrived on the SS Aquitania. A Communist Party of the United States member and organiser, this US Greek was originally Cretan and a cadre of the ‘Union of Cretans in America.’ Palaiologopoulos says killed Jarama 24 February 1937. He had been a leader of the Greek Youth of Spartacus in New York. In the United States he worked as a plasterer and brought 2 years military experience to Spain. Born in 1899 at Panethimo Gisamo in Greece of very poor family. Last of the seven children. In 1913 travelled to America. Worked long hours in various jobs - car factory, tram driver, construction of railroads, building construction from New York to California. In WW1 in the France front as an American soldier. Upon return became political aware and moved to the left. Became a member of Unemployed Workers Council and the Greek American Working Educational Committee and the Spartacus organisation of America. Organiser of the committee for non-qualified workers. Took part in the big Electrical Workers Strike of Tollingdon, in Ohio - repressive conditions. Also organised Greek Unemployed Unions throughout America. One of the people who created the Union of Greek people of America. Member of CPUSA and from 1930 an organiser of the Greek Communist section in New York. Participated in organising the CPUSA in St. Louis. When the Union of Greece heard of his death they sent his brother the following message; ‘Your heroic brother fell in battle serving the excellent traditions of our lands and defending the democratic freedoms of the Spanish people. In common with the struggles for freedom in Crete. Despite our sadness at his death we feel proud that he died a free Cretan and we promise that we will keep his example his live and honour the Cretan tradition of bravery.’ A lot of ceremonies in various cities of America took place to hour him; Detroit 23 May 1937 the leader of the Car Workers Union and representative of the Committee - Friends of the Lincoln Battalion Philip Raymond - ‘We are proud because this immigrant organiser embodied and symbolised the highest and most progressive aspect of his nation. He was also one of the most progressive people of our nation - American Independence. He carried on his honest and just fight at Jarama in order for others to live free and happy.’ His brother, Marcos, at that ceremony - ‘Friends, compatriots. Please pass my words to the Ambassador of Spanish Democracy. The Big sadness of the loss of my beloved brother. The tragedy that the Spanish people are suffering is of greater seriousness and this adds to my sadness. I hope that the death of my brother and so many anti-fascists in Spain will excite every Greek and freeman to action.’ The Ambassador of Spain was at the ceremony.
Tzonson Giannis - a US Greek who as an officer was killed at Jarama 24 February 1937. A member of the Spartacus Brotherhood of Philadelphia. Origin Asia Minor. Possibly John Johnson
Tzortz Peter - a Greek American from New York.
Oulkoff Giannis - (Wulcoff Ivan) a Greek from Macedonia who lived in Canada, he was reported missing at Gandesa 1 April 1938. He served with the Lincoln Battalion having arrived in Spain early 1937 and was killed at Gandesa 4-5 April 1938 by an artillery shell.
Vasiliadis Stavros - from Paris, and originally Constantinople. Killed at the Battle of Jarama.
Vasilioy Miltiadis - he survived the war. A Greek from France and a photographer by profession who served in the Lincoln-Washington Battalion..
Vavoudis Nicos D. - (Vavoydis - pseudonym Gerasimos) a Greek American volunteer. A cadre of KKE and secretary of Enotikou Ergatikou Kentron(Workers Union Centre) in Piraeus. Dimitris Sakarellos and Nikos Vavoudis escaped along with seven others from imprisonment at Aegina Prison in 1934. Travelling first to the Soviet Union and eventually to Spain in 1936 where he served as an officer with responsibility for training, and at Albacete with the Balkan Battalion and other services. A return to the Soviet Union at the end of the civil war was necessitated by the on-going political situation in Greece. In 1944 he returned to Greece to fight for his country’s freedom, staying illegally in Athens. In 1951 the Greek Security Services caught up with him in Athens and he committed suicide rather than be taken alive. Zacaradias and his supporters later claimed that the suicide did not take place and that Vavoudis in return for giving information was allowed to travel to and live in the United States.
Vernos Costas - (Vernikiotis) active in the KKE (joined 1927). Came from Agrinio where he worked in the Tobacco growing industry. Rose in the party ranks to become an important figure. Member of Committee of CP of Agrinnion and struggled for worker’s rights. An avid anti-Trotskyist who survived several assassination attempts. In 1929 organised the major Tobacco Workers Strike that fought the police in raising barricades. Forced to leave for Macedonia here carried on his revolutionary activities. Escaping from police custody he fled to Voros and once again became active in local Communist Party activity. In 1932 captured and imprisoned at Ithejin. Whilst in prison he maintained his political development and taught othe prisoners Marxist theory. On release after police harassment he was forced to leave Greece. Went to Spain and became a sub-lieutenant commanding a machine gun company in the Dimitrov Battalion. Very brave and killed 27-28 August 1937 at Belchite. A letter written by a comrade from Benicasim - saluting the death of Vernos fighting in the frontline for humanity’s sake and dying as a Communist for the working-class. As a machine gun company commander he looked after his men. He was modest and had a great deal of military ability, leading to him being respected and adored by his men. His death was an inspiration to others.
Vidalis Costas - member of KKE he survived the war to become a well-known Communist journalist and was then assassinated in 1946 at Larissa. His important role in Spain was that of correspondent for Rizospastis based in Barcelona to cover the People’s Olympiad and later went to Madrid working as a war correspondent until 1937. Born in Athens in 1904 and after secondary school he took up Law at university. But, left and trained to be a journalist and was involved in the workers movement. He wrote for Rizospastis. On returning to Greece exiled by the Metaxas regime on the island of Kithera. During the Nazi occupation he was a key figure that assisted the illegal publications of KKE and EAM. And a main author of leaflets. After the communist guerrillas hand in their weapons he became a member of Rizospastis. In August 1946 while operating as a correspondent in Thessaly he was caught by the thugs of Sourlas in a train and took he to the village of Milya, led him to the village cemetery, tortured and interrogated, stripped naked, whipped and stabbed him - only finishing him off the next day. His body being thrown to the dogs and his remains buried by the villagers.
Vorinos - (Severis) survived the war but later disappeared in the Soviet Union during the Stalin era. The names are most likely a pseudonym - he chose to keep his anonymity. He was formerly Secretary of the Central Committee of OKNE - small left-wing party.
Vrettos Dimitrios - (Vrettas D. L./ Dionysios L. Vrettos) a Greek American killed in action April 1938 at Gandesa during the retreats. He served with the Lincoln-Washington Battalion. From Brooklyn he arrived on the SS Paris. A seaman by trade he came originally from Lithoro a suburb of Kateryni. Went to Spain in 1937.
Vrettos G. - a seaman.
Yiotopoulos D. - leading member of the POUM.
Yonyiannis Christos N. - arrived on the SS Champlain. He served with an American battalion.
Zaspalis Joe - arrived on the SS President Roosevelt. He served with an American battalion.
Zoumpinakis - a seaman who survived the war.
Zografou Apostolos - from Andrianopole. He fought in the Cordoba front and spent a psoting at the Artillery School at Almansa..
Zotos Nikos - aged 26 a Greek from France (Marseilles) who survived the war. “antebrezo con lesion nervio.” On a list of evacuees from Saint Agaro.
Zoumpoukis Lefteris D. - a seaman he was killed April 4-5 at Gandesa 1938. One of the last Greek arrivals to Spain, after only a few days training sent up to join the Greek Company of the Dimitrov Battalion in the front line.
Zumbimuni E. - (Elefteri) killed in action April 1938 at Gandesa, served with the Lincoln Washington Battalion.
Abastads, Haskia - February 6th Battalion of the 15th International Brigade. A sergeant responsible for the canteen. Born 25 November 1911, in Salonika. A Communist Party member with a contact address 37 Rue Viali, Salonika. Arrived 19 January 1937.
Milos, Simon - a Greek with contact address in France, Raisonade sante, 23 Rue St. Pocal, Paris 13th. Repatriated 17 August 1938.
Zaspalof, John - deserters list.
Calpac, Andre
Tan, Demetrio - deserters list.
Athan Yaketes - 3rd Section, 3rd Company Lincoln-Washington Battalion. Listed as missing 1 April 1938.
Kosmos Stavros
Zagrafos Suiller
Jacques Amirali
Panaou Anastasiou
Kaminos, Tony - “Then back again to Jarama, where we moved in again but a little to the right of our previous position. I don’t think very much happened during this last period at Jarama, at any rate I can only remember one incident. We had a Greek seaman comrade with us in the battalion, Tony Kaminos, who was a long standing member of the Greek Communist Party. One day Tony started going on about the dinner meal. I don’t think it was all that bad really. I managed to eat mine alright, but Tony threw his over the top and kept on about the food, the cooks etc. I tried to reason with him, but in the end Bill Meredith came up and ordered Tony to leave the line and to report down at the base in Morata.”
Ioannis Valianos
Georglis Elstiatos -Served in the Lincoln Washington Battalion and listed as missing 1 April 1938.
Zacarias, Leopold - a Lieutenant in the Trabajos Company of the 86th International Brigade’s 20th Battalion.

Plus unknown medical staff - at least 8 doctors, 2 male and 3 female nurses are mentioned in records. As with other Greek personnel, Cypriots may have been amongst them.