The youngest veteran in 85 years old
About 50-60 participants of the Great Patriotic War reportedly die in Armenia every month.
Acting Chairman of the Board of Veterans' Union, Lieutenant-Colonel Simon Yesayan says there are about 3800 veterans in Armenia today. The eldest of them is 107 years old and the youngest is 85.
Simon Yesayan is angered that the veterans are remembered only during holidays.
"Our veterans are neglected today. Neither the government nor the public pays attention to them. They delay the solution to the veterans' concerns as if waiting for their imminent death. While, in other former Soviet republics veterans are greatly honoured and respected. They are presented with flats and cars. Our authorities don't even provide the veterans with free medical care and transport," says Mr. Yesayan
The Veterans' Union is preparing for the celebration of the 65th anniversary of the Patriotic War.
"Besides traditional parade, we plan a number of meetings with schoolchildren and students. Ten veterans will travel to Moscow and St. Petersburg to participate in local parades," said the Lieutenant-Colonel.
The Union has submitted a list of veterans' problems with the government. By a government decision, the veterans will receive all deposits this year.
