For the First Time in Our History, a Serving Soldier Receives the Title of National Hero of Armenia: Prime Minister

As we have already reported, during the festive event taking place in Sardarapat, Prime Minister Pashinyan awarded the heroes of the victorious battles of July.

"We have gathered here today in Sardarapat Memorial, which symbolizes the glorious victory of the Armenian people over the Ottoman army, on this exceptional occasion. For the first time in the history of the Republic of Armenia, 55 serving soldiers of the Armed Forces have been awarded the 2nd degree 'Combat Cross,' and 16 soldiers have received the 1st degree 'Combat Cross.'

This event is unique because 24 of the awardees are present here, and I have the honor of personally handing them their medals, while the other awardees are not present as they are currently fulfilling their service to protect the Republic and its security. But the most significant moment of this extraordinary situation is yet to come. For the first time in the history of Armenia, a serving soldier is receiving the title of National Hero of Armenia.

In a moment, right here, in this place symbolizing our people's victorious struggle for existence, I will present the Homeland Medal, certifying the title of National Hero, to Captain Ruben Sanamyan of the Armenian Army, and tomorrow he will continue his service in his unit as usual.

This event is proof that the legacy of our freedom fighters—Monte Melkonian, Tatul Krpeyan, Movses Gorgisyan, Jivan Abrahamyan, Yura Poghosyan, and Vazgen Sargsyan—is alive. It is not only a part of history but also an ongoing event today and tomorrow," said the Prime Minister.