22% Decrease in Deaths in Armed Forces: Artak Davtyan

The Chief of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Armenia, Lieutenant General Artak Davtyan, has sent a New Year congratulatory message. In the message, he states:

“Dear generals, officers, non-commissioned officers, soldiers, civilian personnel of the Armenian army, compatriots, I congratulate you on the occasion of the New Year and Christmas.”

“The year 2019 was significant for the Armed Forces. It was filled with both small and major achievements. Throughout 2019, the leadership of the Armed Forces carried out extensive work on the modernization of the Armed Forces, raising the level of security in combat duty, testing domestically produced military equipment, and replenishing military supplies.”

“The Armed Forces have been supplemented with new means of armament and military technology that correspond to the peculiarities of our tasks, are suitable for operation in the climatic conditions of the area, and are easier for personnel to master.”

“One of the most important military events of the past year was the large-scale strategic exercises, which were unprecedented in testing newly acquired weapons and involving reservists. The conscripted soldiers once again proved that they can actively and systematically participate in the defense of the homeland at any time. The active participation of volunteer fighters in the exercises is also commendable.”

“One of the notable innovations of 2019 was the change in the organization of food supply in the Armed Forces, which will gradually include the entire Armed Forces. Efforts have also been made to strengthen combat positions, make them safer, and equip them with the latest technology. The living conditions of the soldiers on combat duty have been improved.”

“As a result of all this, compared to 2018, the number of deaths in the Armed Forces decreased by 22% in 2019, with service-related incidents reduced by approximately 48%.”

“Summarizing the successes of the past year, on behalf of the command of the Armed Forces and personally, I assure you that our army is stronger today than ever and is fully prepared to carry out the honorable mission of keeping the borders of the two Armenian states inviolable.”

“Once again, I congratulate everyone and wish peace to all of us. Yes, we do not want war, but we understand that only by being prepared for war can we establish peace. Every day, thousands of soldiers—our children, brothers, and fathers—maintain and enforce that peace, and they brilliantly accomplish the tasks set before them.”

“I especially congratulate the relatives of fallen soldiers and wish you strength and courage in spirit. The heroism of your sons will never be forgotten. I thank the soldiers who carry out combat duty along the borders of the two Armenian republics with double vigilance during these festive days.”

“Happy New Year and Christmas!”