111. Brigade's 35th anniversary celebrated with a magnificent ceremony in Croatia

In the city of Rijeka, Croatia, the 35th anniversary of the founding of the 111. Croatian National Guard Brigade (ZNG) was commemorated with a series of magnificent events. In addition to wreath-laying and candle-lighting ceremonies, an academy was held in memory of the soldiers who lost their lives in the war. Many veterans, unit commanders, and families of soldiers attended the event, coming together to ensure that the struggle of the past is not forgotten. This significant anniversary served not only as a remembrance of the past but also as a duty to convey the sacrifices and heroism to future generations.

This historically significant day is based on the Krčki Battalion's seizure of control of Rijeka Airport 35 years ago, and the event is considered the founding date of the brigade. Veterans and the local population emphasized their pride in following the footsteps of their units on this meaningful day and their determination to keep the memory of the martyrs alive. The ceremony served as a reminder of the role played in Croatia's struggle for independence, alongside emotional moments. Participants reiterated that they came together in the difficult days of the past and emphasized the importance of this unity.

Speaking at the ceremony, Vlado Milković, President of the Brigade Command Club, stated that they always commemorate the important anniversaries of the warriors from Rijeka and its surroundings with honor. Milković paid respect to the memories of the brigade's founders and first commanders, such as Sergij Rabar, Dragan Ivkić, Gordan Juračić, and Ante Šimić. By recounting how difficult the struggle was for soldiers to protect their own homes and the newly established state at that time, he expressed the hope that today's youth will also carry this consciousness. Sharing the bittersweet memories of the past, Milković described how much sacrifice went into the establishment of the brigade.

Deputy Commander for War Denis Deković, who gave detailed information about the brigade's war path, recounted the long and arduous journey starting from Gospič and Otočac and extending to Inner Posavina, also taking part in the VRO 'Storm' (Oluja) operation. Deković poignantly recalled that 53 members of the brigade were martyred, laying down their lives for the foundations of the independent Republic of Croatia, while 282 members were wounded, 46 of them seriously. He reported that approximately 9,000 people served in the brigade during the war, predominantly soldiers from the Primorsko-goranske region and especially from Rijeka. These figures laid bare the weight and cost of the brigade in the Croatia struggle.

There was also high attendance from state officials at the event; figures such as Rijeka Deputy Mayor Vedran Vivoda, County Council officials, and Ministry of Croatian Veterans State Secretary Darko Nekić made speeches. Additionally, generals such as Marijan Mareković were present at the ceremony, along with representatives of the President and Government officials. The academy, colored by musical performances from Karin Kuljanić and klapa 'Nevera', was the scene of emotional and enthusiastic moments. While speakers wished that future generations would never feel the need to go to war again, they conveyed the message that love for the homeland and loyalty must always be preserved.