Petrit Latifi

On the 30th of April 1897 the Revalsche Zeitung, Number 97, published an article about Albanian fighters and German officers resisting Greek forces in 1897 at Larissa and Turnavos. According to the German officer Brumbkow-Pascha, serving in the Turkish army, the Albanians distinguished themselves during battle while singing and cheering, which frightened the Greeks. He also states that a 70-year old Albanian notable from Prizren had arrived at the camp with his five sons. The Austrian military attache Baron Giesl was much impressed by the Albanians.

Cited from the article:

“… Our Albanians, in particular , distinguished themselves with their white fezzes, which had become a terror to the Greeks. They advanced into battle, singing battle songs and cheering. Wherever the white fezzes were visible, the Hellenes were seized by a terrible panic at the Albanians contempt for death. Baron Giesl, the Austrian military attaché, who witnessed the battle at my side, exclaimed: “These Albanians are simply admirable!” “I am,” cried Grumbckow, “enthusiastic.” I know nothing more perfect than a Prussian soldier. But all respect to these Albanians,when they climbed the ramparts, singing as if dancing, amid the hail of Greek grenades.”

Photograph of Baron Giesl

Reference

https://dea.digar.ee/?a=d&d=revalschezeitung18970430.2.12&srpos=18&e=——-en-25-revalschezeitung-1–txt-txIN%7ctxTI%7ctxAU%7ctxTA-albanesen————