"Armenia, January 28, 2026: The Nation Celebrates the Army with a Day of Holiday" by Carlo Coppola
Yerevan, Armenia - Today, January 28, 2026, Armenia celebrates one of its most cherished national holidays: Army Day. This commemorative occasion, established to honor the country's armed forces, sees the entire nation pause to pay tribute to the soldiers who have defended and continue to defend national sovereignty.
A Day of Memory and Pride
Armenian Army Day has its roots in the country's recent history. The holiday commemorates the founding of the Armenian armed forces on January 28, 1992, a crucial moment for the young post-Soviet republic that had declared its independence in September 1991. During that historical period, the creation of a national army represented not only a military necessity but also a powerful symbol of Armenian self-determination.
This year, the celebrations have taken on particular significance in the context of recent geopolitical tensions in the South Caucasus region. Relations with Azerbaijan remain complex, and the Nagorno-Karabakh question continues to represent an open wound in the Armenian collective memory.
Celebrations Across the Country
In Yerevan, the capital, thousands of citizens poured into the streets to witness the traditional military parade. Soldiers in dress uniform marched past the Armenian Genocide Memorial, a symbolic location that connects the sacrifice of modern military personnel to the historical memory of the Armenian people. The parade included displays of military equipment and skill demonstrations from various army units.
The Armenian President delivered a commemorative speech, emphasizing the importance of the armed forces in protecting the country's territorial integrity and thanking veterans for their service. "Our army is the guarantor of our freedom and independence," he declared, receiving warm applause from the assembled crowd.
Throughout the country, from major cities to rural villages, families visited war memorials to lay flowers and pay tribute to the fallen. Many churches organized special services to pray for soldiers in service and commemorate those who gave their lives for the nation.
Beyond public celebrations, Army Day is also a moment of reflection for many Armenians. Conversations in homes and cafés often turn to the sacrifices required by military service, with mandatory conscription remaining a reality for young Armenian men.
For veterans, this day represents an opportunity to reunite with comrades-in-arms and remember shared experiences together. Numerous veterans' associations organized commemorative events and social gatherings.
In an era of geopolitical uncertainty, with the Russo-Ukrainian war having reshaped the balance of power in the region and Armenia-Russia relations going through a delicate phase, Army Day takes on particular relevance. Armenia finds itself navigating a complex diplomatic landscape, seeking to balance its historical alliances with new strategic partnerships.
Today's celebration underscores the importance that Armenian society places on national defense and military readiness, in a regional context that remains volatile and unpredictable.
Carlo Coppola
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