Solemn Academy upon CAF Day

Dignity and pride were the key words in the speech to the present members of the Croatian Armed Forces and MOD employees emphasized by the President Josipovic. Noting that Croatia is undisputed and indisputable independent and democratic state, a member of NATO and soon member of the European Union and numerous regional initiatives, he concluded that for Croatian freedom and independence most deserving were Croatian war veterans and members of the Croatian Armed Forces. “Appreciating the victims of the Croatian people, from the early days through the anti-fascism until the Homeland war, first I want to recall on the founders of the Croatian Armed Forces and all those who gave their lives in defending Croatia”, said President Josipovic, noting that today’s task have been different and particularly commented on the participation of CAF members in the peacekeeping operations and missions around the world. He also mentioned the CAF support to the civilian population participating in various activities such as fire fighting and anti-flooding activities and in search and rescue. “We face new challenges and goals”, said the President at the end, concluding that the CAF was highly professional and apolitical organization, and congratulated all members of the Croatian Armed Forces and the Army their day, especially all promoted, awarded and commended.

Congratulations were given by Minister Vukelic as well, recalling the path that CAF has passed since unwavering defenders and liberators to NATO membership. “We showed how to defend, to love and how to build our beautiful country” said the Minister, paying special recognition to all those who have sacrificed their lives and their health for the Republic of Croatia. Noting that the experience and knowledge was for what our armed forces were recognizable around the world, he concluded that CAF members in peacekeeping missions promote the reputation of Croatia in the world like Croatian ambassadors. “A person is in the centre of our attention, and the quality of our members are recognized as a special value”, Minister Vukelic said, adding that it is therefore necessary to continue to invest in training and equipping and modernization of defence systems. The Minister said to CAF members and MOD employees that their work and professionalism was recognized, and at the end he expressed his confidence that they would continue to pursue all the goals.

General Lucic recalled on the beginning of CAF which, as he noted, were established in impossible conditions. Noting that in just a year we built the Croatian army, and that without equipment and weapons, and under embargo we defended and liberated our Homeland, he particularly mentioned the Croatian generals and admirals Spegelj, Tus, Bobetko,Cervenko and Letica, and more than 8000 death and 15 000 wounded Croatian defenders. He also recalled the CAF reform process, saying that our armed forces successfully transformed from the wartime to the peacetime armed forces, and that in the last ten years we have made a strong turnaround, becoming professional and highly standardized armed forces. In this regard, he mentioned all CAF services of the Armed Forces Command, concluding that CAF members have been ready to carry out all the tasks. “With rich experience from the war and strengthened by the young members, the Croatian Armed Forces are ready to answer any challenge, guaranteeing the safety of all Croatian citizens”, General Lucic said, congratulating all members of the Armed Forces, especially those in peacekeeping missions.

Upon the Armed Forces Day and Army Day, which is celebrated on May 28, 148 CAF members were promoted and four first officer ranks were awarded. Brigadier General Vlado Sindler thanked on behalf of promoted, awarded and commended. The ceremony completed by the CAF Orchestra program.