A LOCAL DEFENCE FORCE
Cyprus found itself at risk at the beginning of World War 2. This was because of its strategic importance. It was agreed because of this that the island would soon need its own defensive force. The idea of forming the Cyprus Volunteer Regiment also arose from a Cypriot desire to actively protect their island, even though it was under British control at the time. The British, who were by this time in retreat from rampaging German forces, welcomed the idea. They then took steps to help form a new regiment that would comprise solely of Cypriots. Although this force was initially created to protect Cyprus from any potential threats, it was later mobilised in an offensive capacity and proudly served in several theatres of war.
A VOLUNTEER REGIMENT
The Cyprus Volunteer Regiment was founded on April 12th 1940. Becoming known as the CVR, it was solely made up of Cypriot volunteers. Recruitment was voluntary, and several Cypriots from all walks of life answered the call to join. Both Greek and Turkish Cypriots volunteered in droves, and working together with the British, they all shared the common goal of defending their homeland. The regiment, which numbered approximately 30,000 at its peak, initially performed defensive duties across the island. This included policing and guarding the island’s infrastructure. The regiment, in its defensive capacity, was later used to defend the Suez Canal, as well as Cyprus.
OVERSEAS CAMPAIGNS
As the war progressed, the soldiers of the CVR became eager to fight for the Allied cause in an offensive capacity and in 1941, their role dramatically changed. The regiment then underwent rigorous training in preparation for offensive combat. As a result of this, its ranks comprised highly skilled mobile infantry, which included both mechanical and pack transport companies. After the CVR joined other British Commonwealth forces overseas, they would go on to serve in several theatres of war throughout the Middle East and North Africa, actively participating in several overseas military campaigns.
PRAISE FROM A PRIME MINISTER
It was firmly acknowledged later that the regiment fought bravely in several battles throughout World War 2. Winston Churchill, on a brief visit to Cyprus in 1943, acknowledged this by praising the soldiers of the CVR. He did this during an address to the nation. He stated that the regiment had already served honourably and stated that their combined efforts had already made a significant difference to the overall war effort. It was also acknowledged after the war that the brave and dedicated CVR had shown a determination like no other to help defeat the enemy. It was acknowledged that they had also made a significant contribution to the Allied cause. Mostly forgotten today, their contribution and sacrifice still live on in the memories of several Cypriots. The regiment’s legacy, as a result, remains a testament to the courage and resilience of all of the Cypriots who served.
A NEW CAUSE
The Cyprus Volunteer Regiment continued to serve after the end of the war, but was then disbanded in 1950. It was firmly acknowledged at the time that the CVR had fought with both courage and honour, and although all serving Cypriots had pledged loyalty to the British Empire, they were quick to remind authorities that they also pledged a loyalty to their homeland and self-determination. Enlisted men, who had quietly slipped back into civilian life after they were retired from active service with honours, were then called upon to take up a new cause. This led to the formation of EOKA, which was then instrumental in the island’s struggle for independence, which began just five years later.
