Hello everyone :)!
Today I’m bringing you something really special that happened yesterday; a view on Croatia’s military parade. It wasn’t just a show of force, it was a moving tribute to the 30th anniversary of Operation Oluja (Storm) and a reminder of how hard our independence was fought for.
(pictures at the end!)
A Bit of Background: What Are We Celebrating?
On the occasion of commemorating the Day of Victory and Homeland Gratitude, the Day of Croatian Veterans and the 30th anniversary of the military police operation Oluja - "Storm", the capital of Croatia has become a center of pride. One of the key moments that secured Croatia’s sovereignty in the 1990s.
The military parade in Zagreb is held and included more than 3,100 participants. It brought together soldiers, police forces, civil protection services, firefighters, war veterans, and international allies, all marching in unity and pride.
My Experience:
I went to the parade with my dad who also participated in war as a solider. We arrived around 3 PM and secured a good spot on the street of Vukovar, right where the parade started. Thankfully, we were mostly in the shade so no sunburns (yayy)!
The historical military units were absolutely fascinating. Their traditional uniforms transported us through time, reminding us of how Croatian people defended their culture and territory centuries before. Then came the infantry, and let me tell you their pride was shining from their faces. When they shouted “Domovini vjerni” (“Faithful to our homeland”), I felt such a wave of emotion and got goosebumps!
What really touched me was seeing units not only from Croatia but also international allies including the USA, Slovakia, Albania, and others. It was powerful to see them walk beside us in solidarity :)!
The parade also included firefighters, police, mountain rescue, and other essential services that protect us every day, not just in war, but in peace too.
And then came the machines… Oh wow. From tanks to tactical vehicles, armored personnel carriers, patrol boats, and military aircraft, it was a display of precision, coordination and defense.
The Rafale jets, everyone's favorite addition to the air force, flew overhead in the perfect formation, while helicopters and transport aircraft filled the sky above Zagreb. The sound was thunderous, but instead of feeling like a call to war, it felt like a tribute. A loud, proud “thank you” to everyone who gave everything for this country.
What It All Means To Me
Although I'm not really a fan of showchasing the military equipment especially in times like these this parade was not about showing power in the traditional sense. It wasn’t about aggression. It was about memory, gratitude, and presence.
It reminded me that our freedom wasn’t gifted to us. It was earned. Painfully, bravely, and at a heavy cost.
Standing there with my dad, I felt a deep respect for everyone who fought so that I could live my life in a free country. In a country that's not under agressors or fake leadership. In a country without fear, without violence. That’s not something I take for granted.
I took pictures of the parade so you can experience the atmosphere for yourself. Trust me the photos don’t do it justice, but they’ll give you a taste of just how incredible and emotional this event really was.
Pride. Memory. Unity.
To everyone who marched, served, and stood for Croatia in past and present, thank you. I’m so proud to be part of a country that not only remembers its history, but honors it with heart.
Domovini Vjerni❤️🫡!
