Memorial service held for five national guard officers killed in 2002 helicopter crash

A national memorial service was held in Kouklia, Cyprus, to mark the 24th anniversary of the death of Lieutenant General Evangelos Florakis and four other National Guard officers. The officers died on July 10, 2002, when their helicopter crashed. The ceremony was led by the new Metropolitan of Paphos, Gregorios. Defense Minister Vasilis Palmas delivered a speech honoring the victims, who included Air Force Commander Stylianos Demenegas, pilot Paris Athanasiadis, aide-de-camp Nikolas Georgiou, and co-pilot Michalis Siakallis. Palmas described Florakis as an exemplary leader and praised the professional contributions of the entire crew. The minister emphasized that their sacrifice serves as a lasting legacy for the Cyprus National Guard and the Republic of Cyprus. The event reaffirmed the importance of their service in upholding the nation's security and dignity.