Recruits from the third generation of basic military training swore a solemn oath to the homeland on Friday. The ceremony took place at four military locations across Croatia, where the participants confirmed their commitment to the state. Part of the recruits took the oath at the '123rd HV Brigade' barracks in Požega, while others did so at the 'Lieutenant General Andrija Matijaš Pauk' barracks in Knin. An additional part of the training was completed at the 'Eugen Quatern' military training ground near Slunj, while recruits from the training in Vinkovci took the oath together with those from Požega.
A total of 1,000 recruits, including women, were enrolled on 17 August, representing an increase from the start of the programme. State Secretary Branko Hrg stated that the programme began with 800 participants, but the capacity has now been expanded to 1,000. The first training for this generation took place at the '5th Guard Brigade 'Hrvatski sokoli'' barracks in Vinkovci. The Ministry of Defence reported that 1.3 per cent of young people expressed a conscientious objection.
State Secretary Tomislav Galić stated that Croatia has one of the most successful models of basic military training in Europe. State Secretary Drago Matanović added that recruits, by mastering military skills, learn to handle new challenges. The Chief of the General Staff of the Armed Forces, Tihomir Kundid, sent congratulations to the recruits in Požega, highlighting that the military profession offers education, career progression, promotions, a stable livelihood, and respect.
At the ceremony in Požega, the Mayor of Požega, Borislav Miličević, and the Deputy of the Požega-Slavonia County, Ivan Radoš, were present. Recipients were told to continue their careers in the Croatian Army. The State Secretary for Defence, Branko Hrg, announced that the government and the Ministry of Defence would expand the capacity of the basic military training programme in the future.
