Croatia marks 31st anniversary of Operation Storm with state ceremony in Knin

Knin, the historic center of Serb rebellion, is hosting Croatia's main commemoration of the 31st anniversary of Operation Storm. The military-police operation, launched on August 4, 1995, marked a turning point in the Croatian War of Independence. Its swift conclusion liberated Knin and other occupied areas, bringing an end to years of conflict and paving the way for the Dayton Agreement.

The day's events began early with a dawn wake-up call through the city streets, followed by a mass. A solemn ceremony at the "Oluja 95" monument honored fallen and missing defenders, with wreaths laid by families, veterans, and high-ranking state officials including the President, Prime Minister, and Speaker of Parliament.

The central ceremony took place at the NK Dinara stadium, where a traditional flag-raising on Knin Fortress was broadcast via video screens. The event concluded with a display of capabilities by the Croatian Army and Police, including a flyover program. Earlier, a photo-monograph titled "1995" was presented, featuring over a hundred photographs by 26 Croatian war photojournalists documenting the victorious operation. Minister of Veterans Tomo Medved highlighted the "optimism" visible on the faces of the victorious Croatian defenders in the photographs.

“

On the faces of the victorious Croatian defenders, we recognize optimism.