Wednesday is Independence Day in the Greek Orthodox community...


In Vestal the Greek Orthodox Church of the Annunciation celebrated with a Greek flag raising and luncheon. It was on this day in 1821 when the Greeks declared their independence from the Ottoman Empire, which had ruled them for 400 years. The day coincides with the Feast of the Annunciation when Christians believe the Angel Gabriel told the Virgin Mary she would be the mother of Jesus.


"Today is more that just a Fourth of July for them. It is a truly Fourth of July Independence Day celebration for them. But it's also a faithful independence. They're allowed to express their faith," said Father Michael Bahlatzis of the Greek Church of the Annunciation in Vestal.


The War for Greek Independence began in 1821 and ended in 1832.