Croatian soldiers perished during the Croatian War of Independence (1991~1995) | Poginuli hrvatski branitelji tijekom Domovinskog rata (1991.~1995.)
The Croatian War of Independence (1991~1995) claimed the lives of numerous Croatian soldiers who valiantly fought for their country’s freedom and independence. These brave men and women made the ultimate sacrifice, laying down their lives to defend their homeland and protect their fellow citizens.
Croatian soldiers faced formidable challenges during the war. They confronted well-equipped and trained enemy forces, often fighting against superior numbers and firepower. Despite these odds, they displayed unwavering courage, resilience, and a deep sense of patriotism as they engaged in fierce battles and military operations.
The loss of Croatian soldiers was felt deeply by their families, friends, and communities. The pain of their sacrifice continues to reverberate throughout the nation. Each fallen soldier left behind loved ones who mourn their absence and remember their bravery and dedication.
The fallen soldiers of the Croatian War of Independence came from all walks of life and represented a cross-section of Croatian society. They were sons and daughters, husbands and wives, brothers and sisters. Their selflessness and sense of duty compelled them to join the military and defend their country, regardless of the personal risks involved. The sacrifice of these soldiers was not in vain. Their unwavering determination, fighting spirit, and willingness to lay down their lives contributed significantly to Croatia’s ultimate victory and the establishment of an independent nation.
Croatia honors its fallen soldiers through various means, including memorials, ceremonies, and commemorative events. These serve as a reminder of their sacrifice and ensure that their memory lives on. Their names are etched in the hearts of the Croatian people and will forever be remembered as symbols of courage and patriotism.
The fallen Croatian soldiers of the Croatian War of Independence embody the nation’s indomitable spirit and the price that was paid for freedom. Their sacrifice serves as a powerful reminder of the human cost of war and underscores the importance of striving for peace and preserving the hard-fought independence that they so bravely defended.
MAJOR GENERAL ANDRIJA MATIJAŠ PAUK (1947~1995)
IN MEMORIAM: Andrija Matijaš Pauk was a Croatian Major general, war commander of the Croatian War of Independence. Born July 31st, 1947, in Pozorac, Marina outside Trogir. Died October 9th, 1995, in Podrašnica outside Mrkonjić-Grad, Bosnia and Herzegovina. Andrija Matijaš Pauk was a professional soldier, an expert in tanks and armored combat, and an excellent athlete in several disciplines.
Photograph: Božo Vukičević. Source: Homeland War Museum Dubrovnik (MDRD).
JOSIP TVRTKO REIHL-KIR (1955~1991)
IN MEMORIAM: Josip Tvrtko Reihl-Kir (25 July 1955 – 1 July 1991) was a Croatian police commander from Osijek known for his peacemaking initiatives in the opening stages of the Croatian War of Independence. He was killed in an ambush on the approach to Osijek, along with two other people – Osijek City Council Vice President Goran Zobundžija and city councilor Milan Knežević, while Mirko Tubić was wounded.
Photograph/Source: CROPIX
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SINIŠA GLAVAŠEVIĆ (1960~1991)
IN MEMORIAM: Siniša Glavašević (4 November 1960 – 20 November 1991) was a Croatian reporter. During the Battle of Vukovar, Glavašević was regularly reporting from the besieged city. He is particularly remembered for a series of stories he had read to the listeners, that talked about basic human values. Glavašević disappeared shortly after his last report on November 18th, 1991. He had been beaten and executed by Serbian paramilitary forces, along with hundreds of others between 18–20 November. In 1997, his body was exhumed from a mass grave in a nearby farm in Ovčara. He was 31 years old.
Photograph: Matko Biljak. Source: Homeland War Museum Dubrovnik (MDRD).