Early Life & Family
Andreas Paraskeva was born on November 30, 1940, in Koma tou Gialou, a village in the Karpasia district. Today, his birthplace remains under Turkish occupation. His parents were Paraskevas Alexandrou and Ekaterini Paraskeva. He had eight siblings—Antonis, Alexandra, Elli, Eugenia, Alexandros, Anastasis, Ilios, and a younger brother named after him, born after his death.
Education & Patriotism
Andreas completed primary school in Koma tou Gialou and attended Gialousa Gymnasium until fourth grade. The school is now in Turkish-occupied territory. Even as a student, he showed deep love for Greece and Cyprus.
Joining EOKA
In late 1955, Andreas joined EOKA’s student group in Gialousa. His actions were fearless and bold. He never feared arrest, prison, or even death. When his father warned him he was too young, Andreas replied:
“You’re too late, father. Your son grew up the day he took his oath. Now, Greece is my mother and father.”
A Father’s Pride
Though his father held leftist views, he supported Andreas’ fight. After his son’s death, his former comrades shunned him. Yet he remained proud, saying:
“My leftist friends avoided me, but I didn’t care. My son died for his country. I worked hard to educate all my children, so they’d be worthy of their heroic brother.”
The Final Battle
On July 2, 1956, at 2:30 PM, Andreas and a fellow fighter ambushed British soldiers in their village. Andreas threw a bomb, wounding two soldiers. The British chased him, shooting from rooftops. They spotted him fleeing on his bicycle and gunned him down. He was only 15 years old.
Legacy & Loss
After the 1974 Turkish invasion, his grave was destroyed. But his bravery lives on. Andreas Paraskeva remains a symbol of youthful courage and sacrifice for Cyprus. He was one of the youngest to join E.O.K.A. at the age of 15.
