PHOTOS: 289 new voluntary recruits take oath to serve in Croatian Army

(Photo: MORH/ F. Klen)

A total of 289 voluntary military recruits took their solemn oath to serve the Republic of Croatia in a ceremony held on 28 February 2025 at the “123rd Croatian Army Brigade” barracks in Požega.

This marks the first batch of recruits this year, consisting of 243 men and 46 women, including six top athletes.

Pride in Serving the Homeland

Many of the recruits shared their enthusiasm and pride in joining the voluntary military training program.

One recruit highlighted the valuable skills they are learning, saying, “We are gaining useful knowledge, and I hope this will help me in my future military career.”

(Photo: MORH/ F. Klen)

Another recruit, a young woman, expressed how meaningful the experience has been for her. “I chose to serve primarily because of my father, who is a deminer. He has been my biggest motivation, and it is an honour to be part of the Croatian Army,” she said.

Encouraging others to take on the challenge, she added, “I invite young people to join and experience this. It truly is an honour to serve our country.”

(Photo: MORH/ F. Klen)

Support from the Croatian Leadership

State Secretary Branko Hrg, representing the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence, congratulated the recruits on their oath, acknowledging the growing interest among young people in voluntary military training.

(Photo: MORH/ F. Klen)

“Seeing so many young people here who have voluntarily decided to undergo training makes me happy. You have taken a big step today, and I hope many of you will continue your careers in the Croatian Armed Forces,” he said.

Hrg assured that the Ministry of Defence will continue investing in the military, improving soldiers’ material rights, and equipping the forces, emphasising that people remain the most vital part of the Croatian Army.

(Photo: MORH/ F. Klen)

General Kundid’s Encouragement

General Tihomir Kundid, Chief of the General Staff of the Croatian Armed Forces, also congratulated the recruits.

“The knowledge and skills you gain here will strengthen and enrich you. The military profession is not easy—it is a continuous process of training and learning,” he stated.

He encouraged recruits to embrace the challenges ahead with confidence. “I believe many of you will choose to sign a professional contract after completing the eight-week training. The Croatian Army is not only a military force but also a guarantor of peace and security. It offers career opportunities, education, and financial stability unlike any other profession.”

(Photo: MORH/ F. Klen)

Intensive Military Training

The first voluntary military training cycle of 2025 lasts for 40 working days and will conclude on 9 April 2025. The rigorous training program includes weapons handling, physical preparation, tactical drills, and basic military skills.

Recruits who successfully complete the training will receive the military specialisation of infantry rifleman (11A), qualifying them for service in the Croatian Armed Forces.

(Photo: MORH/ F. Klen)

Since the introduction of voluntary military training in 2008, a total of 11,787 recruits have completed the program, including 10,100 men and 1,687 women.

(Photo: MORH/ F. Klen)

A Promising Future for Young Soldiers

The ceremony was attended by top military and government officials, including President Zoran Milanović, State Secretary Branko Hrg, General Tihomir Kundid, and other high-ranking officers.

(Photo: MORH/ F. Klen)

Their presence underscored the significance of the event and the commitment of the Croatian Armed Forces to nurturing the next generation of military professionals.