NEW YORK, NY –
John A. Catsimatidis, Nicholas Tsakos, The Hellenic Initiative (THI), and Capital Link have been selected as the Grand Marshals for the 2026 Greek Independence Day Parade, the Federation of Hellenic Societies of Greater New York Parade Committee announced. The Parade—recognized as the largest celebration of Greek independence outside of Greece—will carry special significance in 2026 as it honors the shared revolutionary legacies of Greece and the United States.
This year’s honorees were chosen through a deliberate and inclusive process that invited public recommendations from across the Greek American community. “We are deeply grateful for the many thoughtful submissions received, reflecting the vitality, diversity, and shared pride of our community. After careful consideration, the Committee unanimously selected two distinguished individuals and two exemplary organizations whose leadership, philanthropy, and enduring commitment to Hellenism embody the spirit and purpose of the Parade,” Parade Committee Chairman Lou Katsos said.
The Grand Marshals
John A. Catsimatidis, Chairman of the Red Apple Group, has long stood as a pillar of the Greek American community, Katsos noted. “Through his business leadership, philanthropic generosity, and unwavering advocacy for Greek and Orthodox causes, he has strengthened institutions, supported education and faith, and consistently elevated Hellenic visibility in American public life,” he said.
Referring to Nicholas Tsakos, Founder and CEO of Tsakos Energy Navigation (TEN) Ltd., Katsos stated that “he represents the living continuity of Greek seafaring excellence and international leadership. His commitment to philanthropy, education, and the promotion of Hellenism—both in Greece and throughout the Diaspora—embodies the outward-looking spirit that has always defined the Greek people.”
The Hellenic Initiative (THI), he continued, “has become one of the most impactful Greek-American philanthropic organizations of the modern era. Through strategic, transparent, and innovative initiatives, THI has supported Greece during times of profound challenge while investing in its future—particularly through entrepreneurship, education, and sustainable development.”
Capital Link has, for decades, served as a vital bridge between Greece and the international financial and business communities. By promoting Greek shipping, investment, and economic leadership on the global stage, Capital Link has reinforced Greece’s modern relevance while honoring its historic strengths, he added.
According to the announcement, these selections are especially meaningful in 2026, a year in which the Parade’s theme highlights the shared revolutionary legacy of Greece and the United States, bridging the 205th anniversary of the Greek War of Independence (1821) with the 250th anniversary of American Independence (1776)—two revolutions united by ideals of liberty, self-determination, and civic virtue.
“Together, these Grand Marshals reflect service, leadership, philanthropy, and vision. They exemplify the enduring bonds between Hellas and America, and the timeless ideals that unite their respective struggles for independence,” Katsos said.
