Historical background to the document "Opening and concluding speech of Heydar Aliyev, President of the Republic of ‎Azerbaijan, supreme Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces at the ceremony of ‎decoration of parents, family members of the soldiers, deceased National Heroes ‎and distinguished people, who participated in the defense of Khojaly from the ‎enemy with medals of Golden Star and order of Banner of Azerbaijan (February ‎‎26, 1999‎)"

On February 25-26 1992, equipped with modern weapons, the Armenians with the assistance of Khankendi-based 366th Motor Rifle Regiment of the former Soviet Union attacked Khojaly defended by a self-defence detachment armed with 50-60 guns and hunting rifles. Artillery and heavy military vehicles shelled Khojaly, thus causing fire in the town. Despite the efforts of the self-defense forces in the unequal battle, the town was completely destroyed by the Armenian armed forces, the local population massacred.

On February 26, 1999, on the occasion of the anniversary of the Khojaly genocide Heydar Aliyev awarded with orders and medals the parents and family members of the national heroes, fighters and those who were distinguished in defense of Khojaly.

“90 Instants of the Great leader”, Heydar Aliyev Heritage research center, “Sharq-Qarb”, Baku-2013, p.141