The personnel of the unit under the command of Col Vazgen Hakobyan is lined up on the parade ground. Practical trainings had been held with the troops that are taking combat duty. The training of the personnel, equipment, and weapons is now being inspected. The commanders of the combat positions are thoroughly instructed in observance of security rules, organization and implementation of service.

On this section of the border the combat duty is mainly carried out by contractors. Most of them are residents of the area, know well the area, which makes the service much easier, and the presence of their loved ones living in the area helps them a lot. They serve with great responsibility and respect.

Private Ashot Gharibyan has been serving as a contractor for twelve years now.

“Three people from my family are defenders of the homeland,” says Ashot proudly. “My eldest son, Arsen, is an officer, a senior lieutenant, and my youngest son, Arthur, is a conscript. We defend our home, our land, our country…”

By ALICE ALAVERDYAN

Photos by AREG VARDANYAN