A program celebrating the life and legacy of famed Armenian commander Monte Melkonian will be taking place on Friday, December 7, 2012, in Glendale Public Library, on the occasion of what would have been his 55th birthday.

Melkonian, a California native, was an intellectual and a freedom fighter who dedicated his life to the national-liberation struggle of the Armenian nation. He played a key role in the liberation of a part of Armenia - Artsakh - and was awarded the title of National Hero of the Republic of Armenia.

The event will feature the premiere of a documentary prepared by Hayrenaser, which reflects on Monte’s role in the liberation of Artsakh and the significance of his liberated territories.

Political scientist and historian Dr. Armen Ayvazyan will present a comparative analysis, drawing parallels between the rebellion of the 1720’s in the Artsakh-Syunik region led by Davit Bek and the meliks of Artsakh and the actions of the Armenian commanders, particularly Monte, in the most recent liberation war in Artsakh.

Singers Armen Movsisyan and Hovhannes Shahbazyan will enrich the evening with their performances, while an exhibit will showcase photographs dedicated to Artsakh’s liberated regions of Kashatagh and Karvachar.

The event is organized by Hayrenaser organization, which has a mission to contribute to the preservation and development of Armenia’s independent statehood by identifying and addressing critical challenges.