The "Kune": 10,000 Soldiers Defended Vukovar and Liberated Croatia

The 3rd Guards Brigade "Kune" stands as a testament to the bravery and sacrifice of Croatian soldiers during the Homeland War. Established on April 29, 1991, in Vinkovci, this elite unit, one of the four most decorated Croatian brigades, comprised young men from Slavonia. Their unwavering commitment saw approximately 10,000 members serve, with 392 tragically falling in battle, over 10,000 wounded, and some still missing.

The "Kune" were instrumental in restoring order across Slavonia and Baranja. In 1991, they fiercely defended Vinkovci and Osijek, engaged in combat in Baranja and Western Slavonia, and played a crucial role in the defense of Vukovar during the autumn of that year. Their actions extended to capturing military facilities in Osijek, Đakovo, Našice, Slavonski Brod, and Vinkovci, with the seized equipment proving vital for Croatia's defense. Notably, brigade members were the first to shoot down enemy aircraft during the war.

Their combat engagements continued through 1992 with the defense of Vinkovci, and in 1993, they participated in Operation Maslenica and the defense of the Zadar hinterland. During the 1994 ceasefire, the brigade focused on training for upcoming liberation operations. In Operation Flash, two tactical groups of the 3rd Guards Brigade were among the first to enter liberated Okučani. During Operation Storm, they were deployed to defend Osijek against potential eastern advances. For their exceptional wartime contributions, the brigade received numerous commendations and was awarded the Order of Nikola Šubić Zrinski and the Order of Prince Domagoj with a Necklace, solidifying their legacy as heroes of the Homeland War.