Victory and Homeland Thanksgiving Day and the Day of Croatian defenders

Victory and Homeland Thanksgiving Day and the Day of Croatian defenders History

Victory and Homeland Thanksgiving Day and the Day of Croatian celebrates the achievements of the Croatian Armed Forces during the country's War of Independence. The day also pays tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice for their homeland.

This commemorates the victory of Croatian forces and the swift military action named Operation Storm on August 5, 1995 that brought an end to the War of Independence. As Croatia became a member of the European Union in 2013, this observance not only highlights the nation's perseverance but also fosters a sense of unity, understanding, and solidarity among other European Union member states.

The observance is notably recognized by the Croatian diaspora, who carry on their homeland's traditions by organizing various cultural and educational events, such as exhibitions, concerts, and lectures that help keep the memory and importance of the day alive. Victory and Homeland Thanksgiving Day and the Day of Croatian defenders is observed annually on August 5th.

Top facts about Victory and Homeland Thanksgiving Day and the Day of Croatian defenders

• The consequences of Operation Storm are severe and lasting… According to a 1995 UN report, around 200,000 Serbs fled the country. This resulted in three times fewer Serbs in Croatia now than their number was in 1991 - Sasa Obradovic, head of Serbian legal team
• Operation Storm began at 5am on 4 August 1995.
• It took the Croatian Army only 84 hours to liberate the 10,500sq km area.
• It is estimated that about 200,000 Croatian soldiers took part in the operation. A total of 174 Croatian soldiers lost their lives during the operation. There is controversy about how many soldiers entered the area. Serbs claim nearly 250,000 while Croatians claim around 100,000.

In the News and Trending in the EU for Victory and Homeland Thanksgiving Day and the Day of Croatian defenders

Victory and Homeland Thanksgiving Day and the Day of Croatian defenders Top Events and Things to Do

• Spread awareness for the day on social media using hashtags such as #CroatianDefenders, #VictoryHomelandThanksgiving and #OperationStorm.
• Attend the wreath-laying mass in Knin, the former capital of the Serb entity. The mass commemorates those who died in the war.
• Take part in the parades and concerts in Knin. These celebrations are attended by high political officials. Before the activities, you can see the Croatian flag ceremonially lifted atop the Knin Fortress.
• Read a book about the operation. Some of our favourites are: Operation Storm, Operation Storm: Croatia, the War and the Future, Actions of the Croatia Special Police in Operation Storm and The Last Genocide of the Krajina Serbs.