YEREVAN, OCTOBER 19, ARMENPRESS. Russian Ambassador to Armenia Ivan Volynkin awarded the Armenian rescuers who had participated in eliminating the consequences of the accident in the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant on April 26, 1986, reports “Armenpress”.

Members of “Chernobyl Union” of Armenia NGO Gevorg Vardanyan, Khachatur Klijyan, Gevorg Melkonyan, Artur Harutyunyan, Yerem Avagyan have been awarded with medals of the Russian Emergency Situations Ministry for taking part in the rescue operations during the Chernobyl disaster.

Russian Ambassador Ivan Volynkin emphasized the necessity of always remembering the persons who showed support during the disaster.

“The disaster changed the fates of hundreds of people, not only those of scientists, rescuers, soldiers, people living in nearby settlements, but perhaps, the entire world. It caused major economic damage which although cannot be compared with the damage caused to the people and the environment. Today we have a chance to remember those who have endangered their health and lives for fighting against the consequences of the terrible disaster”, Volynkin said.

Yerem Avagyan still has healthcare problems and is under medical control, however, doesn’t regret for what he has done.

“In 1986 I was serving in the army, when the next day of the disaster we were immediately taken to the nuclear power plant. I have been engaged in chemical research. And this award was important not only for me, but also for my friends who had also participated in those works. This is another sign of appreciation”, he said.

The Chernobyl disaster was one of the major nuclear accidents in the history of mankind. During that time the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant was the largest in the Soviet Union.