17 years on – Kornat tragedy remembered

(Photo: HVZ/Croatian Firefighters Union)

Today marks the anniversary of the tragic incident on the Croatian island of Kornat, where 12 firefighters from Šibenik, Vodice, and Tisno tragically lost their lives.

On August 30, 2007, a devastating fire erupted within the Kornati National Park, prompting the deployment of a 23-member firefighting team transported by an Mi-8 helicopter.

Amidst challenging terrain and lacking water supplies, 13 firefighters became trapped between two hills, surrounded by an unstoppable wall of flames.

The catastrophe claimed the lives of six firefighters on the spot, with six more succumbing to severe burns later in the hospital.

The sole survivor of this heartbreaking event was Frane Lučić, who endured multiple injuries.

This incident stands as the most significant loss of life in the history of Croatian firefighting and remains a profound sorrow for the nation.

The heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice 17 years ago are remembered as:

• Dino Klarić (33) from Šibenik

• Gabrijel Skočić (20) from Vodice

• Hrvoje Strikoman (19) from Vodice

• Ivica Crvelin (42) from Tisno

• Ivan Marinović (33) from Grebaštica

• Marko Stančić (17) from Šibenik

• Ante Crvelin (23) from Tisno

• Tomislav Crvelin (23) from Tisno

• Josip Lučić (19) from Tisno

• Karlo Ševerdija (17) from Vodice

• Marinko Knežević (52) from Boraja

• Ante Juričev Mikulin (22) from Vodice

In honour of their memory, commemorative events are being held across the country today.

Wreaths will be laid and candles lit at memorial sites, serving as a solemn tribute to the fallen firefighters.

At precisely 15:25, all firefighting units throughout Croatia will activate their sirens simultaneously, creating a nationwide moment of reflection and respect.

Additionally, a remembrance procession will commence from Tisno, uniting community members, fellow firefighters, and officials in paying homage to those who lost their lives.