Anniversary of the death of Staff General Anton Tus: memory of the first Chief of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of the Republic of Croatia

By laying wreaths and lighting candles at Zagreb's Mirogoj cemetery, the first anniversary of the death of Major General Anton Tus was commemorated, whose role in the modernization of the Croatian Army is indelible. At the ceremony on September 3, 2024, with the highest honors, numerous military officials participated, including Brigadier General Krešo Tuškan, Chief of the General Staff of the Croatian Armed Forces, and Brigadier Generals Mijo Validžić and Ivan Zelić, who paid tribute to this giant of Croatian military history.

Tus was born on November 22, 1931, in Bribir, near Crikvenica, and from an early age dedicated himself to the military profession. Throughout his career, he faced numerous challenges, from schooling at the Air Force Military Academy to leading command structures of the former JNA. However, his most important moment came in 1991 when he left the Yugoslav Army and joined the defense of the Republic of Croatia, becoming the first Chief of the General Staff of the Croatian Armed Forces. He remained in this position until the end of 1992, actively participating in crucial military operations that shaped Croatia's defense during the Homeland War.

A career marked by historical contributions
General Tus is remembered for his strategic abilities and steadfastness. His appointment as Chief of the General Staff was crucial at a time when the Croatian Army needed organizational strength and military experience, which General Tus provided. By commanding through the most challenging phases of the war, between autumn and winter 1991, he ensured that Croatia defended its territory and took key steps toward ultimate victory. His rejection of the Greater Serbian policy and courageous leadership in operations made many remember him as the man who secured stability and security during the war's most critical days.

Role in international cooperation
After retiring from the Croatian Army, General Tus continued to contribute to his country through diplomacy. From 2001 to 2005, he was the head of the Republic of Croatia's Mission to NATO, where he played a key role in Croatia's accession to this important international alliance. As an ambassador, Tus represented Croatia's interests on the world stage, and his diplomatic efforts enabled the strengthening of international cooperation and secured Croatia's position in global military structures. His work in NATO included necessary reforms for membership, and his name remains synonymous with military and diplomatic expertise.

Awards and memories
Throughout his career, General Tus received numerous honors and awards for his merits. Among the most significant are the Order of King Petar Krešimir IV, the Order of Duke Domagoj, and the Order of Nikola Šubić Zrinski. These decorations not only testify to his wartime achievements but also to his dedication to creating a modern Croatian Army.

As a military advisor to President Franjo Tuđman and one of the key architects of Croatian defense, General Tus will be remembered for his selfless contribution to the development of Croatian armed forces. His death on September 4, 2023, marked the end of an era, but his legacy continues to live through the structures he helped build.

General Tus was also mourned by many former colleagues, comrades, and current members of the Croatian Army, who highlighted his calmness, knowledge, and steadfastness in the most difficult moments. This great military leader, humble and dedicated to his homeland, will forever remain a symbol of determination and strength of the Croatian Army.