Being the great lover of language that I am I'm wondering whether anyone can explain how the phrase "I am going" — if that's actually the translation of σπετσαι — applies to this aeroplane? Some metaphorical meaning, maybe, since it participated in the victory flyover of Constantinople at the end of the war...?
Dutch
After the capitulation of the Ottoman Empire, a Greek Squadron led by Plotarch Aristides Moraitinis flew to the airport of Ag. Stefano, in Constantinople (Istanbul).
The squadron consisted of 4 DH.4 and 1 DH.9. The flight over Constantinople took place on November 1, 1918 with a landing at Ag. Stefano.
Moskovinos also participated among the pilots. During the return of the squadron, at the airport of Mundros (Lemnos), the plane of Moschovinos overturned during landing.
The "SPETSAI" of Moskovinos was painted in the typical colors of the British planes of the time (PC 10 and Linen).
The drawing made by Przemo is from the "SPETSAI" flight over Smyrna (Asia Minor) in May 1919.
SPETSES is an island in the Argosaronic gulf, between Athens and the Peloponnese, famous for its maritime tradition.
Together with the other 2 famous islands (HYDRA and PSARA) they formed the largest percentage of the Greek fleet in the fight for independence (1821-1829).
The Greek Navy traditionally names its ships and the rest of its vessels with the names of islands, naval battles, archaeo-Hellenic deities, names of Heroes, etc.
Dear Przemo, I apologize once again for abusing your space.
Spyros
