The Ministry of Defence of Azerbaijan reported that a series of events were held across the Azerbaijan Army on the occasion of 26 June – Armed Forces Day. Activities took place in various units including types of troops branches, army corps, formations, military units, the Combined Arms Army, special military educational institutions, and the military attaché offices of the Republic of Azerbaijan in foreign countries.
Ceremonies Commence with Tribute to National Leader and Martyrs
The events began with a one-minute silence in memory of National Leader Heydar Aliyev and the Martyrs who sacrificed their lives for the Motherland, followed by the performance of the National Anthem. Participants received briefings on the history of the establishment of the Armed Forces of the Republic of Azerbaijan and the honorable path traversed by the Azerbaijan Army.
Historical Continuity and Development of the Army
It was emphasized that the process of national army development, initiated during the era of the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic—the first democratic republic in the Muslim East—entered a new stage in independent Azerbaijan based on the principle of historical continuity. The Separate Azerbaijan Corps, established on 26 June 1918, constitutes the legal foundation of the Army of the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic.
Pursuant to a historic Decree signed by National Leader Heydar Aliyev on 22 May 1998, 26 June is solemnly celebrated each year as Armed Forces Day. Under the visionary leadership of Victorious Supreme Commander-in-Chief Ilham Aliyev, the Azerbaijan Army has evolved into a highly capable and combat-ready military force. During the Patriotic War, the army liberated the country’s territories from occupation within a short period, bringing victory to the Azerbaijani nation.
Diverse Activities and Public Engagement
In accordance with the plan, military units organized public-political training sessions, roundtable discussions, conferences, visits to museums, as well as book, photo, and art exhibitions. Documentary and feature films were also screened. Additionally, graves of martyrs were visited, and meetings were held with their family members.
Concert programs were presented as part of the festive events, with participation from the Army Ideological and Cultural Center named after Hazi Aslanov, the Ganja Garrison Ideological and Cultural Center, representatives of the cultural and artistic community, and regional departments of culture.
Awards and Recognition for Servicemen
During the events, a group of distinguished servicemen who excelled in the performance of their duties were presented with awards. The celebrations highlighted the army's achievements and its commitment to national defense.
