Photo Feature - Commemorating the 20th anniversary of Medak Pocket

13-0102 - September 16, 2013

Shilo, Manitoba — Serving and retired members of the Canadian Army gathered at Canadian Forces Base Shilo for a ceremony commemorating the 20th anniversary of the Battle of Medak Pocket on September 13.

The Battle of Medak Pocket, which occurred in September 1993, is a significant moment in Canadian military history. Canadian and French peacekeepers defended their position against Croatian forces, making it possible to stop the escalation of violence in the region. The Canadian battle group that deployed to Croatia was structured around the 2nd Battalion, Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry, currently based at CFB Shilo, and included a large number of reservists from other units.

The Battle of Medak Pocket marked the first time that a Canadian battalion had mounted an operation of that size against armed resistance since the Korean War. For its courage and professional execution of its duty during the battle, the 2nd Battalion was awarded the Commander-in-Chief Unit Commendation in 2002 by then Governor General Adrienne Clarkson.

 “The Canadian peacekeepers present at Medak Pocket did not expect to participate in an outright battle, but their courage and training for a wide range of scenarios enabled them to adapt to challenging circumstances,” said Lieutenant-General Marquis Hainse, Commander of the Canadian Army.   “Their unwavering commitment and professionalism helped them fulfill their mission.”

In addition to the ceremony in Shilo, activities to commemorate the Battle of Medak Pocket also included an exhibit of the Bosnia Memorial Stones at the Military Museums of Calgary in Calgary, Alberta.