Today marks the 15th anniversary of one of the most heroic and strategically critical battles of the Karabakh liberations movementthe liberation of Shoushi. This city, situated atop the highest peak in Karabakh, was being used by Azeri forces as a firing ground on Stepanekert, Martakert and other areas. The legendary Holy Ghazanchetsots Cathedral, which was used as a barn, was a weapons depot during the war. The soldiers who weathered the rough terrain and recaptured this historic Armenian city became true heroes, for liberating Shoushi became a turning point in the victorious Karabakh liberation movement. The first commander of the Karabakh Armed Forces General Arkady Ter-Tatevosyan aptly characterized the victory. He said Shoushis liberation would not have been impossible if the soldiers only adhered to military rules. It was the heroic will of the soldiers that the operation was a success.
