19.08.2026.
Congratulatory message from Minister of Defence to mark Riverine Units and River Flotilla Day
Minister of Defence Bratislav Gašić has sent a congratulatory message on the occasion of August 19 - Riverine Units and River Flotilla Day, which reads:
“On the occasion of August 19 – Riverine Units and River Flotilla Day, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to all members of riverine units.
Riverine units continue the tradition that began 111 years ago when the first Serbian river warship, “Jadar”, was launched at Čukarica near Belgrade, officially starting the formation of the Serbian river flotilla. Preserving and nurturing the rich tradition of their predecessors, riverine units have been the key pillar of the defence system of the Republic of Serbia for more than a century.
Over decades filled with numerous challenges, members of riverine units have successfully matched the development of the Serbian Armed Forces, continuously enhancing their capabilities and adapting to modern challenges and demands. With your professionalism and responsible attitude toward service you make an immeasurable contribution to protecting our inland waterways, maintaining the safety of citizens and property, and providing assistance to the public in emergency situations and humanitarian missions.
The high level of proficiency and professional competence you demonstrate daily, along with your notable participation in national and international exercises, bears witness to the significance of your branch and your important role, not only within the defence system of the Republic of Serbia, but in society as a whole.
I congratulate you on your professional holiday, confident that in the period ahead you will continue to carry out your assigned tasks responsibly and professionally, contributing to the development of your branch and the strengthening of the operational capabilities of the Serbian Armed Forces."
