The 31st anniversary of the Military-Police Operation Storm was marked with wreath-laying and candle-lighting ceremonies, with a powerful message about the importance of remembrance sent from the Korzo.
On Monday, August 3, 2026, the Drenova City Cemetery in Rijeka was the focal point of a commemoration marking the 31st anniversary of the Military-Police Operation Storm. Alongside numerous delegations and veterans, tribute was paid to all fallen Croatian defenders whose sacrifice is woven into the foundations of the modern state.
Wreaths were laid in the Alley of Fallen Defenders and at the central cross by representatives of veterans' associations, the Croatian Army and Police, as well as delegations from the City of Rijeka and the Primorje-Gorski Kotar County. Those gathered paid their respects in silence, and the lit candles sent a clear message that the sacrifice has not been forgotten.
Irena Kačić, who heads the Association of Widows of Croatian Veterans from the Homeland War, expressed gratitude to the veterans for their operation that helped bring the war to an end. She noted that members of the association had visited grave sites across the county, with special attention given to veterans whose family members are no longer alive.
The anniversary was also marked with an exhibition on the Korzo, where visitors were presented with the war paths of Croatian Army units from the Rijeka and Primorje-Gorski Kotar areas. The exhibition features official unit insignia, information about fallen members, and bears witness to the significant role of veterans from this region in the Homeland War.
Emphasis was placed on fallen members, whose names and life stories are an essential part of the units' war history. Their contribution, it was highlighted, remains permanently inscribed in the history of the modern Croatian state.
Rijeka's Mayor, Iva Rinčić, emphasized that the sacrifice of veterans must remain a lasting obligation for all generations. "Freedom must not be taken for granted," she said, adding that commemorating such dates serves as a reminder of the responsibility that peace and independence bring.
Rijeka war veteran and president of the Special Police Association from the Homeland War 'Ajkula', Perica Prpić, reminded attendees of the great contribution of the Croatian people from the Primorje-Gorski Kotar area in defending the country. "The Homeland War is the foundation of the modern Croatian state," Prpić said, stressing the importance of passing on the truth about the war to future generations.
The anniversary of Operation Storm in Rijeka concluded with powerful messages of unity, linking the personal memories of families with the historical portrayal of the role of Rijeka's units, as a lasting reminder that behind military victories stand people and sacrifices that deserve enduring respect.
