Cengiz Topel

military

Cengiz Topel was a Turkish military pilot and the first air martyr of the Turkish Air Force, known for his heroic actions during the Cyprus conflict in 1964. He was born in 1934 and became a symbol of sacrifice after being shot down and captured by Greek Cypriots, where he was tortured and ultimately killed. His legacy is commemorated in Turkey, where he is revered as a national hero, and many streets and squares are named in his honor. The autopsy report detailing the brutal conditions he endured before his death has recently resurfaced, shedding light on the violence he faced.