KOSHI, 15 August 2017 - On 14 August 1974, three Austrian peacekeepers serving with UNFICYP, 1/Lt. Johann Izay, MSgt. Paul Decombe and Cpl. August Isaak, lost their lives in an air attack in the vicinity of the small village of Koshi. Every year, the Mission pays tribute to these three fallen comrades; on 14 August this year, UNFICYP remembered their sacrifice during an event at a memorial constructed in their honour in Koshi.

Austrian Ambassador to Cyprus Dr. Karl Mueller joined UNFICYP Force Commander Major General Mohammad Humayun Kabir, Chief of Mission Support, Mr. Joel Cohen, and members of the Austrian Contingent to honour their memories.

Speaking during the event, General Humayun said: “President John F. Kennedy said, “A nation reveals itself not only by the men it produces but also by the men it honors, the men it remembers”. This morning I am honored to be here to remember and honor the Austrian Heroes who sacrificed their precious lives for the cause of world peace and progress.”

“We have all been touched by the ultimate sacrifice they have made to bring peace for others. May their soul rest in peace,” he added. “I would also like to gratefully remember and pay special tribute to the 186 personnel who have lost their lives in the service of peace on the island since 1964. We are forever in their debt.”