A VOLUNTEER REGIMENT
Founded on April 12th 1940, the Cyprus Volunteer Regiment, also known as the CVR, was a Cypriot military regiment that played a significant role in World War II. Made up solely of Cypriot volunteers, who were eager to fight for the allied cause, the regiment totalled approximately 30,000 Cypriots at its peak. The regiment originally started as a defensive unit that was mainly used for guard duties. It would, however, eventually go on to fight bravely alongside British forces throughout the war. It comprised solely of Cypriot volunteers and its ranks included highly trained infantry and mechanical and pack transport companies.
A LOCAL DEFENCE FORCE
Cyprus found itself at risk because of its strategic importance. The idea of forming the Cyprus Volunteer Regiment was also born out of a desire by Cypriots to actively protect the island and to participate in the war for freedom. The British welcomed the idea and helped to form the regiment to protect Cyprus from any potential threats and to push for their desire for self-determination.Â
MEN FROM ALL WALKS OF LIFE
Recruitment for the CVR was voluntary, and men from all walks of life answered the call to join the regiment. Although from different backgrounds and communities, both Greek and Turkish Cypriots volunteered in droves, working together with the British towards a common goal. They all shared the common goal of defending their homeland, whilst emphasising their fight for freedom.Â
PRAISE FROM A PRIME MINISTER
The regiment fought bravely in various campaigns and battles in several theatres of war. Winston Churchill, on a brief visit to the island in 1943, praised the soldiers of the CVR, stating that the regiment had already served at this point honourably on many fields of war, stretching from Libya to Dunkirk.Â
CAMPAIGNS OVERSEAS
As the war progressed the role of the CVR expanded to include its participation in many overseas military campaigns. The regiment was instrumental as a defence force guarding not only Cyprus but also the Suez Canal. 1941 saw the regiment undergo rigorous training to prepare for offensive combat. It then joined other British and Commonwealth forces in the fight against the Axis powers, deployed mainly to the Middle East and North Africa.Â
BRAVE & DEDICATED
The Cyprus Volunteer Regiment was disbanded five years after the war ended with most of its soldiers quietly slipping back into civilian life. It was acknowledged by the British that the brave and dedicated regiment had made a significant contribution to the Allied cause and had shown a determination to defeat the enemy. It was also acknowledged that the CVR had fought with both courage and honour, proving not only their loyalty to their homeland, but also to the British Empire. The CVR’s legacy remains a testament to the courage and resilience of these Cypriots who served in it, and although often forgotted today, their contribution and sacrifice still lives on in the memories of their families.
