Martyr Elsever Gardashzada, who always carried Azerbaijani flag with him - REPORT

On September 19-20, 2023, the Azerbaijani army secured the country's full sovereignty during a localized anti-terrorist operation that lasted just 23 hours. This success was achieved at the cost of the lives of Azerbaijani martyrs. One of them was 19-year-old soldier Elsever Gardashzada from the village of Shaglakucha in the Lankaran district. In a story prepared by Report, the martyr's family, teachers, and friends shared their memories of him.

The martyr's mother said that Elsever always cared for his family: "Even while serving, he often called us to check on us. He never talked about difficulties and reassured us that everything was fine." The mother also recalled Elsever's patriotism, and how he always carried the Azerbaijani flag with him. She noted that when Elsever's body was found, two Azerbaijani tricolors were found on him.

The father says he now understands that his son's words, "Everyone will live their own destiny," spoken during their final phone conversation, were not accidental. A few days later, the family received news of his death. School teachers remember Elsever as an exemplary student with leadership qualities. His history teacher particularly notes his words, "I will write history myself," spoken before leaving for military service.

Elsever's friend, Seyavush Agayev, recalls that he always treated his elders with respect and was a compassionate and patriotic young man: "He had little time left before the end of his service, but he intended to stay in the army. It was the path he chose."

Elsever Gardashzada died during counterterrorism operations conducted by the Azerbaijani army in September 2023 in the direction of Aghdam. By presidential decree, he was awarded the Medal "For the Motherland" and the Order "For Service to the Fatherland," 3rd degree.