Veterans Day, a day dedicated to honouring the gratitude and respect owed to veterans, is being observed today.
Ceremonies were held in front of the Atatürk Monument in Lefkoşa and at the Boğaz Martyrs Cemetery to mark the occasion.
The ceremony at the Atatürk Monument included the laying of wreaths, a moment of silence, and the raising of flags to the national anthem. Speaking at the event, Ahmet Vural, Secretary General of the Turkish Peace Forces Veterans Association, praised veterans as “exceptional, honourable, and glorious heroes of Turkish history.”
He highlighted that the title of “veteran” is a lifelong honour and an invaluable legacy for their families, adding that both the sovereignty and freedom of the TRNC and Türkiye were won thanks to the sacrifices of martyrs and veterans.
Vural urged the Turkish Cypriots to be vigilant against threats to their freedom, sovereignty, and state, pointing out that while some advocate for a federal solution on the island, “For us, the priority is to preserve, strengthen, and ensure the recognition of the TRNC so that it can take its rightful place on the international stage.”
He also emphasized the importance of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan’s call for the recognition of the TRNC, stating that the unity between Türkiye and the TRNC would continue, with their flags flying high.
On behalf of the Turkish Cypriot Peace Forces Command, Artillery Lieutenant Görkem Torun spoke about the significance of the veteran title, referencing Mustafa Kemal Atatürk’s famous words: “The new rank and the title of ‘veteran’ conferred upon me by the Grand National Assembly belong directly to you.”
Torun added that the heroes whose names are written in gold in the pages of history, and who sacrificed their lives for their homeland, flag, and nation, are the values that bind the Turkish nation together.
Torun further stated that Türkiye and the TRNC remain pillars of stability in the region, maintaining their unity and strength despite all threats, thanks to the sacrifices of martyrs and veterans. He emphasized that loyalty is a core moral value in Turkish society, particularly within the Turkish Armed Forces.
Addressing the veterans, he praised their heroism, courage, and sacrifice as a constant source of strength and inspiration, underscoring that the nation’s unwavering resolve to live in freedom without accepting subjugation, stems from the ideals embodied by the veterans.
Following the ceremony in Lefkoşa, another event was held at the Boğaz Martyrs Cemetery in honour of Veterans Day. This day, 19 September, was declared Veterans Day to commemorate the awarding of the title “Gazi” and the rank of “Field Marshal” to Mustafa Kemal Atatürk after the Battle of Sakarya.