The Croatian Air Force today marked the 34th anniversary of its establishment at the “Colonel Marko Živković” Barracks at Pleso, bringing together senior state and military officials, service members, and the families of fallen Croatian aviators. The ceremony highlighted the Air Force’s historical role in the Homeland War as well as the significant progress achieved in recent years through modernization and technological advancement.
President of the Republic and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces Zoran Milanović wished the Air Force personnel success in operating the new systems entering service. He emphasized that these are complex and demanding platforms, but also noted that Croatia possesses the knowledge and technologies in aviation that are crucial to national security.
Chief of the General Staff Lieutenant General Tihomir Kundid recalled that the Air Force has traditionally been the most demanding and technologically advanced branch of the Armed Forces. He stressed that through modernization and re-equipment, the Croatian Air Force has reached the level of a modern air arm prepared for future challenges, adding that its development must continue at the same pace.
In his address, Air Force Commander Brigadier Krešimir Ražov said that the “knights of the Croatian Air Force” who fell during the Homeland War would be proud of today’s fleet and capabilities, noting that their contribution and sacrifice remain a lasting obligation and guiding principle for current generations. He also underlined the importance of continuous personal and professional development as the foundation of future capability growth.
The ceremony also included the traditional presentation of promotions, awards, and commendations. The President of the Republic issued a series of promotions: to the rank of colonel were promoted Lieutenant Colonels Petar Mutabdžija, Amir Vitez, Željko Kocijan, Antonio Knez, Krunoslav Maček, Mario Babić, and Lieutenant Colonels Maja Ceci and Marija Medur Marcelić. Promoted to the rank of lieutenant colonel were Captains Mate Štrkalj, Dražen Pekar, Denis Živaljić, Ivan Dukić, Daniel Čičmir, Marko Perković, Melita Boltužić, Andreja Božić, Danijel Lada, Zdravko Marojević, Zoran Kovačević, Denis Marković, and Damir Švorinić. A Commander-in-Chief’s commendation was awarded to Colonel Roko Gospić for above-average performance in the execution of duties.
Alongside Air Force members and families of fallen aviators, the ceremony was attended by senior state and military officials, representatives of ministries and state institutions, members of the academic community, Homeland War veterans’ associations, and members of the diplomatic and military-diplomatic corps.
