Veteran Who Lost Both Legs Finds Hope in Pigeon Passion in Kahramanmaraş

WISE NEWS PRESS / KAHRAMANMARAŞ, TÜRKİYE — NOVEMBER 15, 2025

Gazi Mehmet Orçan, a 49-year-old veteran living in Kahramanmaraş, is holding onto life with a deep passion for pigeon keeping, after losing both of his legs during a counter-terrorism operation in 1996.

In 1996, Orçan was serving with the 7th Gendarmerie Commando Battalion in Sason, Batman province. During the operation, which neutralized 27 terrorists, Orçan was severely injured after stepping on a landmine, resulting in the loss of his legs. He was subsequently fitted with prosthetic limbs. Despite the intervening years, Orçan maintains his zeal for life, channeled largely through his beloved hobby.

"Pigeons Gave Me Strength Again"

Orçan described pigeon keeping as a pursuit of the heart and a personal interest. He views the activity as vital to his emotional well-being, noting it served as therapy following his injury:

"After I was wounded, I came to Kahramanmaraş from Ankara. During that difficult period, these birds gave me morale and motivation. They kept me on my feet and kept me strong. Thanks to them, I got through those hard days calmer and stronger. Pigeon keeping is beautiful therapy."

"They are Like Our Children"

The veteran emphasizes the commitment involved in the hobby, which he views as a lifelong dedication that brings peace:

"We take care of our birds’ health and vaccinations one-on-one. They are like our children. Their flight is a pleasure, and their breeding is a separate pleasure... This hobby is what keeps you attached to life."

Orçan, who previously achieved success and earned recognition in shooting competitions, says he applies the same discipline to his birds. He also noted that pigeon keeping is an environmentally friendly pursuit, as he gives the birds’ entirely natural manure to friends who use it to grow organic fruits and vegetables.

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