Croatian Sergeant Major inducted into International Hall of Fame
- by croatiaweek
- in News
General Tihomir Kundid and Major Dražen Klanjec(Photo: MORH/ F. Klen)
ZAGREB – The Chief of the General Staff of the Croatian Armed Forces, General Tihomir Kundid, has presented a certificate to retired Sergeant Major Dražen Klanjec, the former top non-commissioned officer (NCO) of the Croatian Armed Forces, recognising his induction into the International Hall of Fame for foreign graduates of the United States Army Sergeants Major Academy.
The ceremony took place on 4 September 2025.
General Kundid praised the achievement, stating: “This is an outstanding accomplishment not only for you personally but also for the Croatian Armed Forces. Few Croatians have received such recognition, confirming once again the high level of professionalism and reputation of Croatian NCOs on the international stage.”
(Photo: MORH/ F. Klen)
Sergeant Major Klanjec expressed his pride, adding: “I feel especially honoured and proud today. I am grateful to the Croatian Army and the system that selected me and enabled me to advance and develop throughout my career.”
The induction into the International Hall of Fame highlights both Klanjec’s exceptional military career and the role and reputation of the Croatian Armed Forces within the international community. Previous Croatian inductees include former top NCOs Goran Turk, Davor Petek, and Predrag Toplak.
(Photo: MORH/ F. Klen)
Established in 2009, the International Hall of Fame recognises international graduates who have served as senior NCOs at the highest levels within their national armed forces or international military organisations.
(Photo: MORH/ F. Klen)
Sergeant Major Klanjec, inducted in 2024, joined the Croatian Army in 1994 and participated in the Homeland War. Over his career, he served in a range of NCO positions, from platoon commander to brigade sergeant major, culminating in his role as the top NCO of the Croatian Armed Forces from 2020 until his retirement in 2024.
(Photo: MORH/ F. Klen)
A highly decorated officer, Klanjec completed all levels of NCO education and graduated from the United States Army Sergeants Major Academy at Fort Bliss in 2003 as a member of the 53rd class.
