November 18th is a day of remembrance, a national holiday in Croatia dedicated to honoring the victims of the Homeland War, particularly those who suffered during the tragic events in Vukovar and Škabrnja. This date marks the fall of Vukovar in 1991, a devastating event that saw the city endure intense destruction and loss. It also commemorates the war crimes committed in the village of Škabrnja on the same day. Both of these events are remembered for the immense suffering they caused to the people of Croatia. The holiday, officially recognized by the Croatian Parliament in 2019, is a time for the nation to reflect on the horrors of the war. People from all over Croatia travel to Vukovar to pay their respects, while others light candles in their homes and communities to honor all those who were affected by the war.  

November 18th is more than just a day off work; it’s a day to reflect on the past, remember the victims, and acknowledge the pain that shaped the country’s history. It serves as a reminder of the resilience and unity of the Croatian people during one of the darkest periods of their nation’s existence.  

In commemoration of the Day of Remembrance for Victims of the Homeland War, MIOC has put together several such initiatives. The school’s humanitarian action that involved the support of the Social Shop in Vukovar was a success, once again, thanks to students, parents, and others who contributed. Volunteers from our school joined together and packaged 17 boxes worth of donations, which were then shipped off to Vukovar with students and teachers. As part of the project ‘Homeland War, Lessons and Memories,’ students from the 3rd and 4th grades gathered on November 17, 2024, to light lanterns along Vukovarska Avenue in remembrance of the victims of Vukovar. About one hundred students showed their respect for the fallen, continuing a tradition that sees citizens across Croatia lighting candles and lanterns as a sign of gratitude and remembrance for those who gave their lives in the war; this project was guided by teachers, Prof. Gogić, Ninković, and Kanjuh. These initiatives reflect the school’s commitment to preserving the memory of those who suffered during the Homeland War and highlight the empathy and community spirit of MIOC students.