Join us for EMBCA’s “ Sons of Pericles (1926 - 2026) : A Century of Service to America and Hellenism” Webinar Panel Discussion Sunday, June 1, 2025, at 2 P.M. EST / 9 P.M. Athens EEST. The event will be introduced and moderated by EMBCA’s President Lou Katsos. The panel is currently in formation.
The Sons of Pericles is a Hellenic youth organization established in the United States in 1926, founded on principles of service, brotherhood, patriotism, and the preservation of Hellenism. As the junior order of the American Hellenic Educational Progressive Association (AHEPA), the Sons of Pericles has grown into a leadership incubator for young Americans of Hellenic descent and an enduring link between the past and future of the Hellenic diaspora. Its impact spans nearly a century, with notable contributions to civic life, philanthropy, and cultural preservation — including its symbolic relationship to the historic American 122nd Greek Battalion, which adds a profound military and patriotic dimension to its legacy.
The organization was founded in 1926 in Manchester, New Hampshire, by Dr. Alexander Cambadhis, with the support of members from the local AHEPA chapter. Recognizing the need to cultivate leadership among young Hellenic-Americans, Cambadhis envisioned a youth group that would mirror the values of AHEPA—love for Hellenism, education, civic duty, and American patriotism, and named after Pericles, the Athenian statesman whose leadership marked the Golden Age of Athens.
What began as a local effort soon attracted interest nationwide, and by 1928, the Sons of Pericles had been officially recognized by AHEPA’s Supreme Lodge. Chapters began forming across the United States and Canada, and more recently in Greece, where young men were given opportunities to develop leadership skills and contribute to their communities through volunteerism and cultural education.
A unique and often overlooked part of the organization’s legacy is its symbolic connection to the American 122nd Greek Battalion, a military unit comprised of Greek-American volunteers during World War II. The battalion was formed in 1943 under the U.S. Army and made up primarily of Hellenic-Americans who volunteered to fight Axis forces, particularly in the Mediterranean theater. Many of the young men who served in the 122nd Greek Battalion had been Sons of Pericles members, and in many cases, the Sons of Pericles served as a pipeline for Hellenic-American youth who would later answer the call to serve in World War II. Their legacy served as a powerful example to future generations of Sons, underscoring the organization’s commitment not only to Hellenic ideals but also to the defense of freedom and democratic values.
From its inception, the Sons of Pericles offered a framework for developing as civic-minded individuals while staying rooted in their Hellenic identity. Its motto, “Leadership Through Service,” captured the dual emphasis on character development and community involvement.
Chapters hosted educational seminars, sponsored Hellenic Independence Day events, supported local churches, organized sports tournaments, and initiated philanthropic drives. The national leadership body, the Supreme Lodge, introduced initiatives such as the National Project—a cause selected annually to unite all chapters in collective philanthropic efforts. These projects have supported causes like disaster relief in Greece, military veterans, children’s hospitals, and international humanitarian aid.
The Sons also worked closely with their sister organization, the Maids of Athena, founded in 1930, often partnering for events and community projects. This collaboration fostered lifelong friendships and a sense of shared mission within the community.
Cultural preservation has always been at the core of the Sons of Pericles. Through events celebrating Hellenic music, dance, food, and history, the organization has helped countless youth maintain a deep connection to their heritage.
Educational programs, including public speaking and essay competitions on Hellenic themes, help strengthen members’ understanding of their historical and philosophical legacy—from Thermopylae to the 1821 Revolution to the 122nd Battalion’s valor in World War II. The organization instills pride not just in ancestry, but in the values that Hellenism has contributed to the world: democracy, courage, and civic virtue.
As it approaches its centennial in 2026, the Sons of Pericles remains a vital force in Greek-American life. While its numbers have fluctuated over the decades, its mission endures. Alumni of the organization include priests, doctors, public officials, educators, and business leaders who continue to support the broader Hellenic community.
In today’s digital age, the organization has adapted with online programming, virtual conferences, and nationwide outreach efforts. But the heart of the Sons of Pericles remains the same: building character through service, cultivating leadership, and fostering an unbroken chain of Hellenic identity from one generation to the next.
The Sons of Pericles is far more than a youth club—it is a living monument to the enduring values of Hellenism in the diaspora. Rooted in the traditions of ancient Greece, and shaped by the immigrant experience in America, the organization stands as a testament to the power of cultural pride, civic duty, and fraternity.
As new generations of Greek-Americans rise, the Sons of Pericles offers a path to leadership that honors the past while preparing for the future, continuing its proud legacy of “Leadership Through Service.”
Join us as we honor and discuss the legacy and continuing history of this great youth organization on its 100 th Anniversary coming up in February, 2026.
EMBCA is an organization exempt from Federal Income Tax under Internal Revenue (IRC) Section 501(c)(3), classified as a public charity, and qualifies to receive tax deductible bequests, devises, transfers or gifts under Section 2055, 2106, or 2522 . Donors can deduct contributions they make under IRC Section 170. Thank you all again for your continuing enthusiasm and support of our events !!