The Croatian state leadership, led by President Zoran Milanović and Prime Minister Andrej Plenković, participated today in Okučani in marking the 30th anniversary of the military-police operation Flash, which, after four years, Croatia liberated Western Slavonia, until then part of the self-proclaimed Republic of Serbian Krajina (RSK).
"Operation Flash was a key turning point in the Homeland War, a moment in which Croatian forces demonstrated determination, strength and ability to liberate every inch of occupied territory and stop the Greater Serbian aggression. The determination of the then state leadership, led by President Franjo Tuđman, and the courage and professionalism of members of the Croatian Army and police, were crucial for the quick and successful liberation of a large part of western Slavonia," said Plenković in a congratulatory message on the 30th anniversary of the action.
He stated that "hard-won freedom was paid for at the highest price, with the lives of many Croatian defenders" and stressed that their sacrifice must never be forgotten, according to a statement from the Croatian government's press service.
"Grateful and proud that we live in a free and independent Croatia today, we remain permanently committed to caring for Croatian defenders and preserving the truth about the Homeland War for future generations," Plenković emphasized, adding that a special priority remains investments in the modernization of the Croatian Army and police.
At the central ceremony in the center of Okučani, the names of the veterans who died in Operation Flash were read out, and Rafale fighter jets flew over the city.
State and other delegations laid and lit candles at the "Crystal Cube of Serenity" memorial.
Deputy Prime Minister Davor Božinović and Police Director Nikola Milina also congratulated the anniversary of the Flash.
Bonus video:
