The 35th anniversary of the establishment of the 395th Transport Helicopter Squadron of the Croatian Air Force’s 93rd Wing was commemorated with a ceremony at the Knez Trpimir Barracks in Divulje. Founded on November 6, 1991, the squadron has played an important role in military operations, humanitarian missions, and providing assistance to civilians throughout more than three decades of service.

The anniversary ceremony was held on November 9 and attended by the Commander of the Croatian Air Force, Brigadier General Krešimir Ražov, representatives of the 93rd Wing Command, commanders of Croatian Air Force units, and current and retired members of the squadron.

Since its establishment during the Croatian War of Independence in 1991, the 395th Transport Helicopter Squadron has continuously developed its capabilities and adapted to the operational requirements of the Croatian Armed Forces. In addition to carrying out military missions, its personnel participate in activities of significant importance to the civilian population, including humanitarian operations, rescue missions, and providing support to other government institutions.

During his address, Croatian Air Force Commander Brigadier General Krešimir Ražov thanked all generations of squadron personnel for their contributions over the past 35 years. He particularly highlighted their role during the Croatian War of Independence, when their knowledge, courage, and dedication contributed to the country’s defense, as well as the squadron’s continued importance in military and civilian support operations.

The Commander of the 395th Transport Helicopter Squadron, Colonel Stjepan Jović, emphasized that the unit’s activities have been guided by three fundamental values since its establishment.

“For the past 35 years, this squadron has based its work on three words: capability, skill, and belonging. These values remain the foundation of everything our personnel do,” Jović said, thanking both former and current members for their contributions to the squadron’s development.

During the ceremony, commendations and awards were presented to squadron personnel who had distinguished themselves through their work and dedication. Special recognition was given to personnel involved in the 2026 firefighting season, with Brigadier General Ražov presenting medals for assistance to civilian institutions, awarded by the Croatian Minister of Defence.

These decorations are awarded to members of the Croatian Armed Forces who have participated in rescuing civilians in life-threatening situations, demonstrating their expertise, training, and ability to operate under demanding conditions.

The 35th anniversary also provided an opportunity to bring together different generations of squadron personnel and reflect on the unit’s development from its wartime beginnings to its present-day operational responsibilities. The ceremony reaffirmed the squadron’s enduring role not only as a military unit but also as an important component of the system supporting civilian institutions and citizens of the Republic of Croatia.