• Place: Nicosia, Cyprus
  • Date of action: 15 July – 15 August 1974
  • How employed: Regimental Sergeant Major, Camp HQ, UNFICYP

Detail:

Camp HQ of the United Nations Force in Cyprus is situated next to Nicosia International Airport, which was seized by the Greek-officered National Guard as a start to the coup d’état on 15 July 1974, and held by tanks, anti-aircraft guns and troops. From then on the safety and security of Camp HQ was threatened, particularly after the Turkish invasion of Cyprus on 20 July when the Airport was frequently attacked from the air and later by Turkish ground forces. As Camp RSM, Warrant Officer 1 Birch was continually involved in arranging for the protection of the camp, and the dispositions of the garrison, consisting of one platoon of infantry and the available members of the Transport Squadron, Workshops, and Camp staff, with occasional support from Ferret scout cars and Canadian anti-tank weapons. When Turkish infantry entered the perimeter of the camp, he ordered them out, and was obeyed because of the sheer force of his personality.

On 23 July when fighting broke out in the very close vicinity of the Airport and Camp UNICYP, with constant small arms, artillery and mortar fire taking place, RSM Birch volunteered to accompany a Canadian Colonel who set out through the fire to contact the Turkish forces concerned with a view to arranging a local cease-fire. They were engaged together on this task for several hours under very hazardous conditions. When inter-communication proved a difficulty, the Regimental Sergeant Major made use of his knowledge of German and acted as an interpreter to the Turks during the negotiations, which were conducted under fire. When the tentative cease-fire broke down he drove again under heavy fire to recommence negotiations, and helped stop the shooting. By his firm attitude he later twice prevented the killing of Greek Cypriots who had run into the Turkish outposts unintentionally.

The senior Canadian officer who witnessed his actions reported:

‘Throughout the day, and in particular during the last two incidents, RSM Birch’s conduct was outstanding. He demonstrated great patience in his role as interpreter and often placed himself in danger in order to ensure the success of his mission. His quick, positive, and confident reaction to events assisted immeasurably in gaining a final cease-fire and in the saving of lives. RSM Birch displayed exceptional bravery and a standard of conduct which reflect great credit to the British Army’.

Throughout the events of these five weeks during the Camp UNFICYP was often under fire RSM Birch set a fine example to all ranks, by his coolness, discipline, cheerfulness and personal courage.

RR Henn
Brigadier
Chief of Staff
UNFICYP

22 Aug 74