County Prefect Stričak from Knin: 'Because of Them We Live in Freedom'

Knin was the center of Croatia today. In 36 degrees Celsius in the shade, thousands of people gathered for the central ceremony marking Victory and Homeland Thanksgiving Day, Croatian Veterans Day, and the 31st anniversary of the Operation Storm. This operation, more than three decades ago, liberated a large part of the occupied state territory and erased the so-called para-state in that area.

A Message of Gratitude to Veterans

Among the many dignitaries was County Prefect Stričak, who sent a strong message of gratitude to all those who participated in the Homeland War. "We thank all participants of the Homeland War for their courage, determination, and sacrifice. Because of them, we live in freedom," Stričak stated, as reported by Krapinsko-Zagorski via the portal Zagorje International.

On behalf of the Association of Veterans of Croatian Guard Units, the Special Police Association, and all Croatian veterans, Robert Puja, president of the Association of Veterans of the 7th Guards Brigade 'Puma', also addressed the gathered crowd.

Who Was in Croatia's Most Important City

The celebration was also attended by the highest state officials. Photographers captured the arrival of Prime Minister Andrej Plenković and President Zoran Milanović. Also seen in Knin were Dragan Čović, Dijana Filipović, MPs Siniša Hajdaš Dončić and Ivan Račan, Minister Radovan Fuchs, and long-time politician Vladimir Šeks. Representatives of the Dubrovnik-Neretva County also made an appearance, as did Marko Škejo with members of the 9th Battalion of the Croatian Defense Forces (HOS).

Rafales and Wings of Storm Above Knin

The ceremony was further enhanced by a flyover of military aircraft. The sky above Knin was crossed by modern multi-role fighter jets Rafale, and the aerobatic team of the Croatian Air Force 'Wings of Storm' also performed their flight program.