Last month, the Department of Veterans Affairs approved the Armenian Cross as an “Emblem of Belief” that can be placed on the headstones or markers of a deceased American veteran, Asbarez reports.

“Having just honored Armenian American veterans of the United States Armed Forces at our Annual Banquet, this is welcome news and demonstrates the VA’s commitment to honoring Armenian American sacrifices in service to our country,” said Andrew Kzirian, Chairman of the Armenian National Committee of America-Western Region’s (ANCA-WR) Board of Directors.

This development was made possible through the efforts of the family of Shavasp Hanesian, a resident of New York and a veteran of the U.S. armed forces.  Mr. Hanesian served in the 24th Infantry Division in the Army of Occupation of Japan after World War II. 

Currently, the Veterans Administration has approved over 35 “Emblems of Belief” for use on government grave markers.