Member of the 41st Croatian contingent of KFOR, Corporal Zrinko Dejanović, recently received a prestigious award for the best soldier of August 2024, demonstrating exceptional skills and dedication in carrying out his duties. KFOR, a multinational peacekeeping mission under NATO leadership, operates to ensure stability in the region of Kosovo, where Dejanović is recognized for his extraordinary courage and professionalism.

His success is based on his quick response during a routine patrol in early August, when he encountered a severe traffic accident. As an experienced combat medic, Dejanović provided first aid to the injured on the spot, ensuring stabilization of the casualties until medical teams arrived. This readiness and composure in crisis situations reflect Dejanović's high level of expertise and the continuous contribution of Croatian soldiers in international peacekeeping missions.

Croatian contribution within KFOR

KFOR, as a key NATO mission in Kosovo, brings together soldiers from numerous NATO member countries, including Croatia, which actively contributes to security and stability in the region. Croatian soldiers, like Dejanović, play a vital role in maintaining peace, as evidenced by the numerous awards and commendations they regularly receive. KFOR currently comprises thousands of soldiers from over 30 countries, and the Croatian contingent stands out for its professionalism and ability to operate in various conditions.

Excellence recognized at the highest levels

The award for the best soldier was presented to Corporal Zrinko Dejanović by Command Sergeant Major Cengiz Yilmaz, the senior non-commissioned officer of KFOR, during a ceremony held at the mission's base. This award is not only a personal achievement for Dejanović but also an acknowledgment of the overall contribution of the Croatian Army to international operations. Croatian soldiers within KFOR, together with troops from other nations, work daily to ensure peace and stability in a region that has been previously affected by conflicts.

Besides being recognized for his medical skills, Dejanović is also credited with numerous other contributions within the mission. His leadership, dedication, and sense of responsibility towards his comrades and civilians he interacts with daily make him a role model within the Croatian contingent. His recognition comes at a time when KFOR soldiers are involved in many key tasks, including security patrols and emergency responses in crisis situations.

Croatian Army as a key partner in NATO missions

The Croatian Army continues to demonstrate its readiness and adaptability within NATO missions. Any recognition such as this for Dejanović further solidifies the reputation of the Croatian Army on the international stage. In addition to KFOR, Croatian soldiers participate in numerous other missions worldwide, ensuring that Croatia is recognized as a reliable and crucial partner within NATO.

Corporal Dejanović, as a member of the 2nd Motorized Company of the Croatian Army's Guard Mechanized Brigade, currently serves in the Maneuver Company within the KFOR mission. His story is an example of how soldiers from Croatia, regardless of the circumstances, always show exceptional bravery, professionalism, and dedication, further contributing to global peacekeeping efforts.