Armenians Honor and Remember the Late Sparapet Vazgen Sargsyan on His 65th Birthday

On this day, March 5, Armenians commemorate the birthday of Sparapet (Chief Commander) Vazgen Sargsyan, an iconic figure in Armenian military and political history. Born in the Ararat Province of Armenia on March 5, 1959, Sargsyan's life was marked by dedication, leadership, and an unwavering commitment to the ideals he held dear.

A multifaceted personality, Sargsyan began his journey as a physical instruction teacher in a village school in Ararat after graduating from the Armenian State Institute of Physical Culture in 1979. His early years were characterized by a transition from teaching to leadership roles, becoming the Communist Youth League leader at the local cement factory from 1983 to 1986.

While working as the head of the publicity department for the Garun (Spring) literary monthly in Yerevan from 1986 to 1989, Sargsyan's life took a dramatic turn as he immersed himself in politics in the late 1980s. His advocacy for the transfer of Nagorno-Karabakh to Armenian jurisdiction marked the beginning of his rise to prominence.

In the crucial years of 1990–1992, Sargsyan played a pivotal role in Nagorno-Karabakh, leading irregular troops to defend the peaceful population against Azerbaijani military attacks following the declaration of independence. His bravery and strategic acumen during this period laid the foundation for his subsequent roles in Armenian governance.

Sargsyan served as Armenia's defense minister from 1992 to 1993 and later as the state minister in charge of defense from 1993 to 1995. During these tenures, he worked tirelessly to build and strengthen Armenia's army, a cause close to his heart. His efforts in these capacities were instrumental in shaping the nation's defense infrastructure.

Following the 1999 parliamentary election, Sargsyan, along with former Communist leader Karen Demirchyan, formed a coalition that secured a majority. As a result, Sargsyan assumed the role of Armenia's prime minister. However, this promising chapter was cut short when, a few months later, both Sargsyan and Demirchyan, along with several others, were assassinated in the Armenian parliament.

On what would have been his 65th birthday, we remember Sparapet Vazgen Sargsyan not only as a skilled military strategist and politician but also as a visionary leader who dedicated his life to the pursuit of peace, purpose, and the well-being of his people. His legacy continues to inspire generations of Armenians.