Croatian Martyr’s Day observed in Udbina

The commemoration honors Croatian martyrs, defenders, and victims who died throughout history defending the Croatian homeland. It is traditionally held in the town of Udbina in Lika-Senj County.

Croatian Martyrs' Day was observed in Udbina today, with a solemn mass was held at the National Shrine of the Church of Croatian Martyrs. On hand for the service was Deputy Prime Minister and Veterans Affairs Minister Tomo Medved.

"Today, here at this holy Mass, we must acknowledge the fact that in recent years we have made a special effort to locate the victims of World War II and the post-war period. Our priority remains the effort to locate missing persons from the Homeland War. Today, here in Udbina, our prayers are with the families searching for their loved ones, with all Croatian veterans, and with all those who bear the visible and invisible wounds from the Homeland War," Minister Medved said.

The Day of Croatian Martyrs was established by the Croatian Conference of Bishops to honor all Croatian martyrs, veterans, and victims who perished throughout history. Originally tied closely to the September 9 anniversary of the tragic Battle of Krbava in 1493, it is now officially observed annually according to the Croatian Bishops' Conference guidelines, often the last Saturday in August or adjusted around early-to-mid September depending on the specific year's liturgical calendar.

Source: HRT