[Congressional Record Volume 142, Number 41 (Friday, March 22, 1996)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E433]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  IN HONOR OF CYPRUS FREEDOM FIGHTERS

                                 ______


                        HON. CAROLYN B. MALONEY

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                         Friday, March 22, 1996

  Mrs. MALONEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to bring to the attention of 
my colleagues the historic achievements of brave Greek-Cypriot freedom 
fighters. They are being honored by Justice for Cyprus and the Cyprus 
Federation of America, two philanthropic organizations that trace their 
roots back to Cyprus.
  On April 1st, we will celebrate the 41st anniversary of Ethniki 
Organosis Kyprion Agoniston [EOKA]. This organization is a group of 
dynamic Cypriot freedom fighters who struck the first blow for 
independence for Cyprus. More than four decades ago, their acts of 
courage led to a 4-year struggle against British colonization and 
occupation.
  EOKA's struggle for independence is joined with the American 
colonists who struggled against the British colonization and occupation 
in America over 200 years ago. These Greek-Cypriot lovers of democracy 
and freedom not only fought for Cyprus' independence, but they also 
fought on the battlefield against tyranny during world War II.
  Today we commemorate all the heroes of Cyprus including Gregorious 
Afxentiou, Kyriakos Matsis, Evaghoras Pallikarides, and Michael 
Karaolis, who gave their lives for freedom. By their sacrifice, they 
join America's Revolutionary War hero Patrick Henry, who freely gave of 
his life and summed up his commitment to freedom with the statement, 
``Give me liberty or give me death.''
  Cyprus became independent in 1960. Unfortunately, liberation was 
short lived; Turkey invaded Cyprus in 1974. Today, one third of Cyprus 
remains occupied by Turkey. Once again, these heroes have been called 
upon to fight for the liberty and independence of their country.
  On this day, we celebrate freedom. When migrating to the United 
States, the Greek-Cypriots brought with them their love of Cyprus, 
culture and democracy. The Cyprus Federation of America, Justice for 
Cyprus, and EOKA serve as important links with Cyprus' past, but also 
act as a springboard for its future. These organizations remain 
committed to the campaign for freedom and human rights in Cyprus today. 
They also help young Greek-Cypriot Americans who will play an important 
role in the growth and success of the United States.
  So Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in the commemoration 
of Cypriot freedom fighters and in wishing the people of Cyprus long-
lasting peace and liberty.

                          ____________________