Warriors' stories: 'Sunja was a small Vukovar, and in Livno we defended Dalmatia'

Večernji List has launched a new series, 'Life Stories from '91,' dedicated to preserving the memories of those who fought in the Croatian War of Independence. The series, hosted by journalist Dea Redžić, promises to delve into the personal narratives of individuals whose youth was irrevocably shaped by the conflict.

Rather than focusing on political divisions or historical disputes, 'Life Stories from '91' centers on the human experiences of war. It aims to give voice to the many who, as teenagers or young adults, found themselves on the front lines. The series will explore their fears, the bonds they formed, the losses they endured, and what sustained them during the nation's most challenging hour. The publication emphasizes that these stories belong not only to the survivors but also to the nation and future generations, underscoring that freedom was hard-won.

The inaugural episode features an in-depth conversation with three members of the elite 'Gromovi' (Thunder) brigade: Kazimir Hrga, Nenad Bužanić, and Drago Kovačević. While the 35th anniversary of the brigade's establishment served as the initial impetus for the discussion, the conversation quickly expanded to encompass their wartime experiences across various significant locations and operations, including Banovina, Sunja, Petrinja, Farkašić, Livno, Dubrovnik, Maslenica, Bljesak, Oluja, and Una.

The 'Gromovi' brigade, one of the pivotal units in the Croatian Army during the war, was formed in May 1991. The series intends to highlight the bravery of ordinary people who, despite their differences, united for a common cause. It seeks to provide a platform for veterans who may have remained silent for too long, offering them a space to share their stories without seeking pity but demanding recognition for their sacrifices.