35th anniversary of Josip Jović's death marked

The 35th anniversary of the death of Josip Jović, a Croatian police officer, volunteer and the first military victim of the Homeland War, was marked in Aržano. Josip Jović died on March 31, 1991, on Easter, in the Plitvice operation, which, due to his death and the wounding of nine police officers, is also known as Bloody Easter.

He was only 22 years old. A mass was celebrated in memory of his sacrifice and numerous delegations lit candles and laid wreaths on his grave.

“Years pass, but sadness and pain remain, but also pride. Thanks to everyone who came,” said Tomislav Jović, Josip Jović's brother.

“He symbolizes the patriotism, courage, and sacrifice of Croatian police officers at that time, because at that time there was no other option than for the Croatian Police to take on that first burden. Throughout the entire Homeland War, it participated equally with the victorious Croatian Army,” emphasized Nikola Milina, the Chief of Police.

The 35th anniversary of the death of Josip Jović will continue to be commemorated at Plitvice Lakes on Tuesday.

The High School for Police in Zagreb is named "Josip Jović", and the Police Academy was named "The First Croatian Police Officer", in memory of Jović.

Source: HRT