The Mission of the 31st Squadron

The 31st Commando Squadron formed one of the main pillars of Operation “Pincer” during the night of July 20th to 21st, 1974. Under the leadership of Major Konstantinos Bourogiannis, the men of the Squadron received orders to attack and seize the heights controlling the Agyrta pass. Their objective was critical: they had to cut the supply and reinforcement route for the Turkish forces that had landed in Kyrenia.

The Advance Toward the Target

The commandos of the 31st Squadron began their advance through the darkness, moving across rough and unfamiliar terrain. The night worked as an ally, allowing the men to approach the enemy positions unnoticed. Despite the fatigue and adverse conditions, their determination remained unshaken. They knew that the success of their mission would determine the outcome of the entire battle for the control of Pentadaktylos.

The Fierce Clash

During the early morning hours of July 21st, the 31st Squadron encountered strong Turkish forces defending the strategic heights. A fierce and unequal battle followed. The Turks possessed superiority in heavy weaponry and armoured vehicles, but the Greek commandos responded with vigor and daring. They used surprise manoeuvres and struck the enemy at close range, inflicting significant casualties.

The Losses and the Sacrifice

The battle exacted a heavy toll on the 31st Squadron. Eight heroic commandos fell fighting, defending the heights of Pentadaktylos. Among them, Sergeant Michalis Paraskevaidis and Corporal Andreas Kaouris, who remain in Cypriot history as symbols of self-sacrifice? Many more sustained injuries, yet they continued fighting until the final order. No one retreated, no one wavered.

The Achievement of the Objective

Despite the heavy losses, the 31st Commando Squadron achieved its objective. Its men seized the strategic heights and maintained control for several hours, fully accomplishing the mission assigned to them. This success allowed the remaining Squadrons to advance and continue Operation “Pincer,” bringing the Greek forces within a breath of complete victory.

The Historical Legacy

The action of the 31st Commando Squadron in Operation “Pincer” remains alive in the collective memory of Hellenism. The fallen of the Squadron receive honours every year as heroes, while their example of self-sacrifice teaches the younger generations. The 31st Squadron proved that the morale and spirit of Greek soldiers do not bend before any superiority in arms.