Croatia marked the 19th anniversary of one of the most serious accidents in the history of Croatian firefighting. The tragedy occurred on the island of Kornat, where 12 firefighters died. This day, 30 August, is observed as the Day of Remembrance for Croatian firefighters, with the Croatian Firefighters' Association organising the commemoration.
The firefighters who died, whose names are inscribed in history following the accident, are: Dino Klarić, Ivica Crvelin, Ivan Marinović, Marko Stančić, Gabrijel Skočić, Hrvoje Strikman, Tomislav Crvelin, Ante Crvelin, Josip Lučić, Karlo Ševerdija, Marinko Knežević and Ante Juričević-Mikulin. It is striking that two firefighters, Tomislav Crvelin and Ante Crvelin, died from injuries sustained several days after the initial accident, further deepening the grief of the victims' families.
The sole survivor of the tragic accident was Frane Lučić, who survived with serious injuries. His testimony and survival remain a symbol of resilience and strength in the memory of all those who lost their lives attempting to save others.
The Government of the Republic of Croatia has recognised the importance of such moments of remembrance, therefore in 2024 it approved the proposal that 30 August be declared the Day of Remembrance for Croatian firefighters. This date now holds a special status in Croatian society, as a day of remembrance for all those who have given their lives in the service of saving others.
The 19th anniversary, held on 30 August, was an opportunity to remember, and to pay tribute to all those who have given their lives in an attempt to save others. The commemoration took place in an atmosphere of respect and remembrance, with an official delegation laying wreaths in memory of the fallen firefighters.
