PHOTOS: New generation of Croatian youth step forward to serve

by croatiaweek
May 20, 2025
in News

(Photo: MORH/ T. Brandt)

POŽEGA, 20 May 2025 – A new generation of Croatian youth has stepped forward to serve, as 162 recruits began their voluntary military training this week at the “123rd Brigade HV” barracks in Požega.

Among the 133 young men and 29 young women starting their eight-week basic training are four elite athletes: skier Tvrtko Ljutić, track and field athletes Filip Pravdica and Roko Farkaš, and Olympic sailor Elena Vorobeva.

This intake marks the 46th generation of recruits to undertake Croatia’s voluntary military training programme. Recruits have arrived from all corners of the country to begin their journey in the Infantry and Armour Training Centre under the expert guidance of military instructors.

The programme began with the formal signing of contracts, followed by the issuing of equipment and allocation to units. Over the next eight weeks, recruits will be immersed in a structured regime aimed at building fundamental military skills, discipline, and physical conditioning.

(Photo: MORH/ T. Brandt)

For athletes like Roko Farkaš, the decision to enrol was driven by a desire to gain new perspectives and learn military tactics. “I’m happy to be sharing this experience with three other fellow athletes,” he said.

Filip Pravdica said he was motivated by a wish to experience order and discipline, and to master essential soldiering skills – from hygiene to daily responsibilities. “Military training is different from sports, where you always have a goal. Here, I expect to learn skills you can’t gain on the field,” he added.

(Photo: MORH/ T. Brandt)

Skier Tvrtko Ljutić shared a similar sentiment, saying his decision was inspired by a desire for new experiences related to military life.

Not all recruits are athletes, but many are equally inspired by personal convictions. Valentina from Županja joined “out of patriotism and to improve life opportunities”, while Livio from Slatina admitted to some nerves, but sees training as “an honour and a chance for something new”. Josip from Saborsko, whose father is a disabled war veteran, said: “My biggest wish is to serve my country.”

(Photo: MORH/ T. Brandt)

Captain Milan Matošević, commander of the 3rd Training Company, is overseeing the recruits’ induction and preparation. He emphasised that the first two weeks will focus on adjustment to military life, followed by the main phase of training which will include physical conditioning, firearms practice, and real-life military tasks. The final weeks will consolidate all acquired skills and culminate in a final evaluation, including a competition to select the best male and female recruits.

(Photo: MORH/ T. Brandt)

For many, this training marks a potential first step towards a professional military career. Successful completion of the programme qualifies recruits for specialist training and the possibility of signing a contract for active service.

Those who choose not to pursue a full-time career in the armed forces will be placed into Croatia’s reserve component.

(Photo: MORH/ T. Brandt)

As these 162 young Croatians embark on their training, they carry not only backpacks and uniforms – but also ambition, determination, and a strong sense of service to their homeland.