Sarkis Gugunian's Postcard
 

Gugunian is most famous for leading the first major armed expedition of Russian Armenians into the Ottoman Empire. In September 1890, Gugunian assembled a volunteer force of approximately 125–150 fedayis. Their goal was to cross the border to protect Western Armenians from the oppressive rule of Sultan Abdul Hamid II.

 

Gugunian’s expedition is noted for its distinctive banner. The flag featured the initials "M.H.", which historians interpret as standing for either Միացեալ Հայաստան (Mother Armenia) or Միութիւն Հայրենասերների (Union of Patriots). The banner was a rallying point that symbolized revenge and the call for Armenian self-defense.