One of the major stops for the participants of the “Ari Tun” Program is the Yerablur Military Pantheon. As they enter Yerablur, they are greeted by Head of the Protocol Department of Yerablur Military Pantheon, Captain Albert Arakelyan, who always talks emotionally about the significance of the place with the spirit of patriotism, and together they go to the cemetery of the deceased Armenians and bow their heads in memory of them.

Albert Arakelyan expresses his heartfelt words about the “Ari Tun” Program and all the young Diaspora Armenians visiting Armenia.

Mr. Arakelyan believes the organizers of the “Ari Tun” Program do a tremendous job and put in all their efforts to help link young Diaspora Armenians to the homeland. “The mothers of our deceased freedom fighters and I are very impressed with this program. By visiting Yerablur, becoming familiar with the significance of the place and visiting the tombs of our brave men, the young Diaspora Armenians become filled with patriotism and decide to return to Armenia upon their return to their respective countries of residence,” Albert Arakelyan mentioned.

Albert Arakelyan told us that the male participants of the program are more inspired. As Arakelyan shares the stories about the deceased freedom fighters’ lives, the boys approach him and ask questions about the Armenian army and the rules of military service. The boys become even more inspired when they visit a military unit and become familiar with an Armenian soldier’s daily routine. That’s when they become filled with patriotism and express the desire to return and serve in the Armenian army.

In closing, Albert Arakelyan said: “The “Ari Tun” Program is a great program serves as an awakening for the young Diaspora Armenians to unite around the homeland and stay true to their roots. Glory and honor to the Armenian government, Mrs. Hranush Hakobyan and the entire staff of the RA Ministry of Diaspora for organizing this program aimed at preserving the Armenian identity.”

Gevorg Chichyan