Remembering the Operation
Operation “Lavida”: What was the night mission that took shape in the fire of the first hours of the Turkish invasion, in July 1974? A daring operation of the Commando Squadrons of the National Guard, with the goal of closing the pass of Agyrta on the Pentadaktylos mountain range like a “pincer” and preventing the Turkish landing forces in Kyrenia from joining forces with the Kioneli enclave.
The Plan Takes Shape
Operation “Lavida”: During the night of July 21st to 22nd, through unknown and impassable terrain, the 31st, 32nd, 33rd and 34th Commando Squadrons moved silently towards the key heights. Every height meant a battle. Every rock meant a trial. The 31st Squadron headed towards “Kotza Kaya”. The 32nd Squadron moved on “Aspri Moutti”. The 33rd Squadron advanced towards “Petromouthkia”. The 34th Squadron advanced towards important heights west of the Agyrta pass. In this way, they created a tight encirclement around the enemy.
A Daring Conception
The plan was audacious. The forces were limited. The time was minimal. Yet the commandos advanced with faith and determination. They penetrated through enemy patrols, seized positions, and held the heights against superior forces. That night was not merely a military operation; it was an act of self-sacrifice.
The Outcome and the Legacy
The Operation Lavida “Pincer” did not achieve completion as originally planned. The developments at the front, the pressure from Turkish forces, and the orders for withdrawal changed the course of events. However, the bravery of those who climbed the mountains of Pentadaktylos remains indelible. Operation “Lavida” represents one of the most dramatic pages of 1974. It was a night where few stood against many. A night where courage surpassed fear.
Pentadaktylos Remembers
And Pentadaktylos… remembers. And if today the rocks remain silent, the sacrifice of that night did not fade away. Follow me on Pentadaktylos, right here where a truth remains engraved: when the homeland calls, some ascend first to the heights! Eternal memory to those who departed
