About the Author & the Mission

 

About the Author & the Mission

Welcome to Respect Love Stay Croatia. My name is Srećko Karić (Feliks), and I am a retired Croatian Army veteran. My journey is not just a collection of war stories, but a testament to survival, faith, and the incredible resilience of the human spirit.

My Journey

Between 1992 and 1995, I served as a member of the 132nd Brigade Našice and the 1st Guards Brigade "Tigrovi" (Tigers). My path during the Croatian War of Independence (Domovinski rat) was one of duty and sacrifice. In 1995, during the final operations of the war, I was severely wounded three times in a single day while attempting to save my comrades.

After five years of intense medical treatment and recovery, I carry the physical marks of that day – ten shrapnel pieces still in my body and significant visual impairment. However, those marks do not define my spirit; they fuel my purpose.

Why This Blog?

This blog is a bridge between the past and the future. It is a space created for education, reflection, and inspiration. My goal is to share my life story – from the moment I decided to join the defense of my country to my life today as a disabled veteran – in a way that is accessible and meaningful, especially for younger generations.

What you will find here:

• Educational Narratives: History told through personal experience, focusing on facts and the reality of war.

• Visual Storytelling: I use comic-style illustrations to make these important lessons more engaging and impactful for students and young readers.

• Resilience Over Trauma: The focus is not on the pain, but on the strength to overcome it.

• Music & Film: As a lover of art and music, I explore how these creative outlets serve as therapy and a way to celebrate life.

A Message of Peace

Respect Love Stay Croatia is not a blog of hatred or finger-pointing. I do not wish to portray us merely as victims or others merely as enemies. I want to rise above that. This blog is about forgiveness, patriotism, and faith.

I believe that every war is ultimately a tragedy for everyone involved. By sharing the "unhappiness of war," I hope to help future generations understand that peace is our most valuable asset. Writing this is my therapy, but sharing it is my contribution to ensuring that the lessons of the past are never forgotten.