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Armenian Army day is marked today. It’s 18 years since the formation of the Armenian Army. Anniversary that makes all of us feel obliged to glance at the past and move forth steadily and with virtue. Festive events have been scheduled today.

Armenian President, accompanied by government members, militaries is due to visit Yerablur military cemetery today to commemorate the memories of those who died for peace and freedom of the motherland.

Alexander Spendiaryan Opera and Ballet National Academic Theatre will host a concert, following which President Sargsyan is due to grant awards to the military sphere representatives.

“18 years ago, as the official administration was being established and first army divisions were being formed, even those with most optimistic views could not imagine we will have such powerful and strong army. No one could see this since we were at war 20 years ago, hard and harsh war when the future destiny of the motherland should be determined,” Armenian Defense Minister Seyran Ohanyan said yesterday.

Through the past years the Armenian Army faced a number of pivotal stages. The most urgent issue at the first stage was to ensure the physical security of the people in Armenia and Artsakh through voluntary detachments.

The next stage faced activities over establishing a National Army, forming divisions and sub-divisions. The Armenians were able to do the impossible and reconcile two hard issues: army-forming process was underway along with the tough, but victorious war. Voluntary detachments made army subdivisions and due to those we enjoyed the victory in the war.

Ohanyan said that the Armenian Army has steadily taken the improvement path and is a reliable defender of our country’s borders, enjoys the international high appraisal and is considered as one of the most efficient in the region.

He urged to step into the 19th army year inspired by full responsibility and obligation, to face all the temptations and challenges and ensure our country’s security in total.

Note that the Armenian first President Levon Ter-Petrosyan signed a decree on forming the Armenian Army January 28, 1992. The newly-formed army was headed by the first Defense Minister Vazgen Sargsyan, who had a great role in forming organized and competent armed forces.

When appraising the army formations, western military experts and other analysts rate the Armenian Armed Forces among most capable, efficient and organized in the Post-Soviet area.