GENERAL PANDUREVIĆ: THE ARMY OF REPUBLIKA SRPSKA DEFENDED SRPSKA IN MAGNIFICENT MANNER

BELGRADE, May 10 /SRNA/ – The Army of Republika Srpska (RSA) performed its role magnificently and, in armed conflict, defended Republika Srpska—which had been established by the political decision of the National Assembly of Srpska—retired RSA General Vinko Pandurević told SRNA.

Pandurević recalled that May 12, 1992, is the date when the National Assembly of Republika Srpska passed the decision to form the RSA as a necessary, compelled measure to defend the Serb people. “That was a time when political tensions and armed clashes were already widespread in BiH, when it was clear that the JNA would withdraw from BiH and that the Serbs had to take their fate into their own hands,” Pandurević stated. He emphasized that he participated throughout the Defense–Homeland War and had the opportunity to review all the documents that institutionalized these matters. Pandurević stressed that the RSA’s contribution was irreplaceable and that every fallen soldier must remain a constant concern, with remembrance and support for their families an ongoing obligation. “I expect that this year, too, the Third Infantry (Republika Srpska) Regiment in Banja Luka will commemorate this date with dignity, and that we will draw great lessons for our future life,” Pandurević said. The Army of Republika Srpska was formed on May 12, 1992, and at the end of the Defense–Homeland War numbered 210,000 fighters, of whom 23,752 were killed. After 14 years of existence, the Army was integrated into the Armed Forces of BiH, where its military heritage and identity are preserved by the Third Infantry (Republika Srpska) Regiment.