Arshaluys Khanjian Keeper of soldiers' graves Date of Birth: 27.12.1913 Country: Operator

1. Arshakuys Khanzhiyan: The Guardian of Soldiers' Graves
2. World War II
3. The Guardian
4. Recognition
5. Legacy
6. Later Years
7. Monument

Arshakuys Khanzhiyan: The Guardian of Soldiers' Graves

Arshakuys Kiworkovna Khanzhiyan was born on December 27, 1913, to Kiwork Hachikovich Khanzhiyan and Zaytar Galustovna Khanzhiyan (née Melidonian). She was one of 12 children in the family.

World War II

During the Great Patriotic War, fierce battles raged near the Podnavisla ravine close to Goryachy Klyuch. Arshakuys assisted medical staff in caring for wounded soldiers. As the Soviet army advanced, she remained in Podnavisla to preserve the memory of the fallen.

The Guardian

After the war, Arshakuys continued to care for the mass graves in Podnavisla. She refused to leave her post, despite pressure from authorities who wanted to demolish her house and clear the area for logging. In 1970, she successfully prevented the destruction of the graves by confronting a bulldozer driver with a rifle.

Recognition

In 1995, Arshakuys' story became widely known through articles in the local press. She was awarded the title "Woman of 1997" in the "Life-Destiny" category of the "Woman and Man" competition organized by the Russian Women's Movement. In 1998, she became an "Honorary Citizen of Goryachy Klyuch."

Legacy

Arshakuys Khanzhiyan dedicated her life to honoring the sacrifices made by the soldiers who died in the war. She became a symbol of courage, resilience, and the preservation of memory.

Later Years

In 1995, Arshakuys lost sight in her second eye. Her niece, Galina Khanzhiyan, moved into her home to care for her. Shortly thereafter, Arshakuys was diagnosed with lung cancer. She passed away in 1998, having fulfilled her promise to remain with the soldiers' graves until her death.

Monument

In 2015, a monument to Arshakuys was erected in Goryachy Klyuch, funded by donations from the local community. The bronze statue depicts a woman in a headscarf sitting on a bench next to a soldier's helmet, symbolizing her dedication to preserving the memory of the fallen.

Arshakuys Khanzhiyan's legacy continues to inspire and remind people of the sacrifices made during war and the importance of honoring those who fought for their country.