Defence Minister Mario Banozic and Armed Forces Chief of Staff Robert Hranj on Wednesday extended congratulations on Victory and Homeland Thanksgiving Day, War Veterans Day and the 26 anniversary of Operation Storm, expressing respect and immeasurable gratitude to Croatian defenders.

The Defence Ministry issued a press release carrying Banozic’s message to war veterans, families of those killed and missing, soldiers and citizens, recalling that hoisting the Croatian flag on the Knin fortress 26 years ago was an indication of the end of the Homeland War and the restitution of all occupied Croatian territories.

Banozic said Operation Storm was carried out by brave Croatian defenders whose path was marked by the suffering of the Croatian people and the destruction of the homeland.

“The modern and democratic Croatia was built on their sacrifice,” the minister said, once again expressing immeasurable gratitude to those who made those sacrifices.

Freedom is a priceless, continuous effort necessary in defence and security

“Let their sacrifice be a reminder to all of us that freedom is priceless and that we need to continue to invest in the defence and security of our country,” Banozic said, adding that Operation Storm and the Homeland War were proof that with unity the Croatian people can achieve the impossible.

“Today, when we are faced with new challenges that are a consequence of the coronavirus pandemic, we very much need that unity,” Banozic said.

Hranj stressed that Croatia’s contemporary, professional, organised and respected Armed Forces, trained for traditional tasks, are helping the society and Croatian citizens on a daily basis in cases of accidents.

He added that with the participation in peace missions, operations and activities, the Armed Forces were contributing to the building of peace and security.