Se rappeler avec ou sans “de” ou “des”

Question

For a question on the topic of rappeler and souvenir the use of “de” is tested.  I gave the response " Vous vous rappelez Îles Cyclades" and did not use rappelez “des” but this was marked incorrect. All discussion communicates that "de" is not needed or is optional after "rappeler" except for stressed pronoun. This is in contrast to requiring “de” after se souvenir.  I am trying to understand why "des" is needed in this situation.

Accepted Answer

Rappeler can be used with or without "de". The two versions, according to my understanding, would be:
Je me rappelle des Îles Cyclades.
Je me rappelle les Îles Cyclades. 
-- Chris

Answer

Hi William,
Yes, you can use rappeler with or without "de". But in the example you cite you would still need the article "les".
Vous vous rappelez les Îles Cyclades.
-- Chris (not a native speaker).

Answer

The correct answer to this question is “vous vous rappelez des Îles Cyclades”.  I do not believe there was an answer that included “les”.  Appreciate someone clarifying or correcting the response.